10th Apr 2025 07:00
10 April 2025
Westminster Group Plc
('Westminster', the 'Group' or the 'Company')
Martyn's Law Granted Royal Assent
Westminster Group Plc (AIM: WSG), a leading supplier of managed services and technology-based security solutions worldwide, is pleased to note the long-awaited Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Bill, also known as Martyn's Law, has been granted Royal Assent and will now officially become law in the UK.
Martyn's Law, named after Martyn Hett, one of 22 people killed in the 2017 Manchester Arena bombing at an Ariana Grande concert, will improve protective security and organisational preparedness across the UK by requiring those responsible for certain premises and events consider how they would respond to a terrorist attack. In addition to this, at certain larger premises and events, appropriate steps to reduce vulnerability to terrorist attacks must also be considered.
To support enforcement of this new law, a regulator will be established through a new function of the Security Industry Authority (SIA), which will support, advise and guide those responsible for premises and events in meeting the requirements of this legislation.
Commenting on the New Legislation, Martyn's Law, Westminster's CEO, Peter Fowler, said:
"The fact that this important new legislation has received Royal Assent and has now finally become law, is a testament to the stoic determination and extraordinary stamina Figen Murray OBE, Mother of Martyn Hett, who for the past six years has been tirelessly campaigning to improve security legislation and raise awareness of the need for greater public safety measures.
"Figen is a powerful voice in security, counterterrorism, and public safety and has been the driving force behind this new landmark legislation which will enhance public safety by ensuring the public are better protected and businesses are better prepared for terrorist activity, something that is increasingly necessary. It is sad that it has taken a tragedy and Figen's remarkable energy to bring it about.
"Like so many people I have been impressed by Figen's determination and stamina in relentlessly driving the campaign for Martyn's Law and I am both pleased and honoured we have been able to assist during the process and to have her as part of the Westminster Group International Advisory Board. Her insight, determination, and deep commitment to safeguarding lives align perfectly with Westminster Group's mission to keep people safe and our broad range of services and expertise are available to assist companies meet the requirements of this landmark legislation."
Commenting further, Figen Murray, said:
"I would like to thank everyone who has supported and assisted us in this endeavour over the years. It was a massive team effort. I am delighted the legislation is finally law after all these years. It will without any doubt save lives. It will also, hopefully, prevent other families from the heartache we and too many other families have suffered through terror attacks."
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Notes:
Westminster Group Plc is a specialist security and services group operating worldwide via an extensive international network of agents and offices in over 50 countries.
Westminster's principal activity is the design, supply and ongoing support of advanced technology security solutions, encompassing a wide range of surveillance, detection (including Fever Detection), tracking and interception technologies and the provision of long-term managed services contracts such as the management and running of complete security services and solutions in airports, ports and other such facilities together with the provision of manpower, consultancy and training services. The majority of its customer base, by value, comprises governments and government agencies, non-governmental organisations (NGO's) and blue-chip commercial organisations.
The Westminster Group Foundation is part of the Group's Corporate Social Responsibility activities. www.wg-foundation.org
The Foundation's goal is to support the communities in which the Group operates by working with local partners and other established charities to provide goods or services for the relief of poverty and the advancement of education and healthcare particularly in the developing world.
The Westminster Group Foundation is a Charitable Incorporated Organisation, CIO, registered with the Charities Commission number 1158653.
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