The aim of the debate is to equip the Association of Security Consultants members, security industry colleagues and other end-users with the facts they need before submitting their views to the consultation.

In February 2020 the Government first announced plans to introduce a law requiring owners and operators of public spaces and venues to put in place measures to keep the public safe from a terrorist attack.   The consultation was launched in February 2021 and runs until July 2021.

The move aims to deliver on the manifesto commitment to improve the safety and security of public venues and spaces and the new ‘Protect Duty’ reflects on lessons learned following the terrorist attacks in 2017, as well as more recent attacks. The proposals also follow discussions with victims’ groups such as the Martyn’s Law campaign, established by Figen Murray whose son was tragically killed in the Manchester Arena attack.

The new law could require all public venue operators to consider the risk of a terrorist attack and take ‘proportionate and reasonable measures’ to prepare for and protect those attending from such an attack. This could include increased physical security and incident response planning, as well as training and exercises for staff on what to do in the event of an attack.

The debate will be chaired by Joe Connell, ASC Chairperson.  In addition to Jeremy Phillips other speakers will be Shaun Hipgrave, Home Office Director for Protect and Prepare of the Office for Security and Counter Terrorism (OSCT) and one of the Protect Duty consultation leads, and Bob Eastwood, operations advisor at the English Football League (EFL).

Further details about the consultation can be accessed here. 

More information about the debate can be found here.