'Significant milestone' in counter-terrorism training in Manchester ahead of 'Martyn's Law'

More than 500 venues and 1,000 staff members have taken part in crucial counter-terrorism training ahead of the expected adoption of 'Martyn's Law' - new national safety legislation championed by Figen Murray following the loss of her son in the Manchester Arena bombing.

Draft legislation is expected to be tabled shortly ahead of an expected Bill becoming law, but Manchester council pushed ahead as early as 2021 in making its principles a licensing condition across the city.

As a result, dozens of hospitality and other venues - and their employees - have now taken part in the Action Counters Terrorism (ACT) training, which aims to equip staff across the city with skills to identify and mitigate potential risks, and respond in the event of a terror attack.

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Council bosses today hailed a 'significant milestone' as work continues in the name of Martyn Hett to protect people from terror attacks. Run in partnership between Manchester council, CityCo and Counter Terror Policing North West, the training was brought in to support the council's adoption of 'Martyn’s Law' ahead of the Government's plan to implement a 'Protect Duty' requirement for venues.

When the new law is passed, it will make it a requirement for venues across the city to improve their security procedures and risk assessments, and be better prepared to respond in the event of an attack.

In a statement, the council said: "The council has been incredibly proud of the response from business across the city, who have shown a great willingness to take on board the principles of Martyn’s Law ahead of their legal duty to do so.

"With support from Martyn's mum, Figen Murray, close