Pool Re welcomes the publication of statutory guidance under Martyn's Law

Pool Re has published a statement marking the release of the Section 27 guidance for Martyn's Law. Section 27 of the Act provides for statutory guidance to help those responsible for premises understand what the duties involve and how to prepare for them. Pool Re, which provides reinsurance for terrorism-related risks in the UK, has offered its view on the guidance now that it is available.

The arrival of official guidance is a helpful step. It gives pub landlords, church wardens, hall managers and event organisers more detail about how the standard and enhanced tiers are expected to work in practice. Remember the thresholds: the standard tier covers premises where 200 to 799 people may reasonably be expected at once, and the enhanced tier covers 800 or more. Staff are included in the count.

The duties are not yet in force. Commencement is expected in spring 2027, and the exact date is still to be confirmed. The SIA's notification process is not yet live either. This is a time to read, familiarise and prepare calmly, not to rush.

If you have not already, work out roughly how many people your premises can hold at a busy moment, including staff, so you know which tier is likely to apply. Keep an eye on the published guidance as it develops, and use this period to think through simple, sensible preparation. For any legal questions about your specific situation, seek professional advice.