Regulator opens consultation on how it will run Martyn's Law

The Security Industry Authority (SIA) has put out a draft of its 'section 12' statutory guidance for consultation. This guidance sets out how the SIA proposes to carry out its job as the regulator for Martyn's Law, the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025. Because it is a draft open to comment, the contents are not yet final and could change before they are confirmed.

This is an early look at how the regulator intends to work once the law's duties come into force. The duties themselves are still not active. Commencement is expected in spring 2027, with the exact date still to be confirmed. So nothing is enforceable now, and there is no need to act under pressure. The value here is insight: it gives standard and enhanced tier premises a clearer picture of what to expect from the SIA in future.

Under the Act, standard tier covers premises where 200 to 799 people may reasonably be expected at the same time. Enhanced tier covers 800 or more. Those counts include staff, not just visitors or customers.

If you want to, you can read the draft and respond to the consultation through the link below. Sharing a view is optional. For most venue operators, the sensible step is simply to stay familiar with how the regulator's approach is taking shape and keep preparing calmly. There is no deadline to meet today.