Media report links National Risk Register update to Martyn's Law preparations

A news outlet has reported that the UK Government is refreshing its National Risk Register at a time when preparation for Martyn's Law is well under way. The National Risk Register is the Government's public summary of the main threats and hazards facing the country, including terrorism. It is a planning document, not a new rule for individual premises. The report does not confirm any new date or duty for venues.

Nothing changes for you right now. Martyn's Law, the everyday name for the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025, received Royal Assent on 3 April 2025, but its duties are not yet enforceable. Commencement is expected in spring 2027, with the exact date still to be confirmed. Coverage like this is a useful reminder that terrorism risk remains part of national planning, and that the timeline for the Act is moving forward.

When the duties begin, standard-tier premises will be those where 200 to 799 people may reasonably be expected at the same time. Enhanced-tier premises are those expecting 800 or more. Both counts include staff, not just customers or visitors. The Security Industry Authority will act as the regulator, though its notification process is not yet live.

Treat this as background reading rather than a call to act. If you want to get ahead, work out roughly how many people your premises can hold at once, including staff, so you know which tier you are likely to fall into. Keep familiarising yourself with the Act at a steady pace. There is time to prepare before the duties take effect.