UK anti-terrorism legislation becomes law in move backed by insurers

By Ryan Hewlett

April 4 - (The Insurer) - Legislation requiring UK venues to improve security and better protect the public against the threat of terror attacks has officially become law, a move which is expected to lead to increased demand for terrorism cover.

The Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025 requires UK organisations to carry out terrorism risk assessments for large public events or public spaces and implement measures to minimise the potential impact.

The act requires public premises where 200 or more individuals may be present to be better prepared and have plans in place to keep people safe in the event of an attack.

Larger premises and events where 800 or more people will be present are required to take further steps to reduce their vulnerability to acts of terrorism, such as having CCTV, bag search policies or vehicle checks where appropriate.

UK terrorism mutual Pool Re has long championed the proposals. In a statement on LinkedIn, Pool Re said the passing of the legislation, also known as Martyn’s Law, marked a “monumental step forward” in protecting communities from terrorism events.

“Martyn’s Law will improve public safety and how prepared British businesses and publicly accessible places are for the risk of a terrorist attack, following recommendations from the 2017 Manchester Arena attack inquiry,” said Pool Re.

The (re)insurance sector has previously said the law is likely to lead to increased demand for terrorism insurance, with subsequent knock-on effects including an uptick in D&O claims.

The proposal was originally set out in response to the Manchester Arena attack in 2017, and is named in tribute to Martyn Hett, who was killed alongside 21 others at an Ariana Grande concert.

Hett’s mother, Figen Murray, has been the driving force in campaigning for this legislation in her son’s memory.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer said on Thursday that Martyn's Law would ensure "everyone can enjoy public events more safely".

“Today is a landmark moment for our security as my government delivers on its promise to introduce Martyn’s Law and better protect the public from terrorism,” he said.