Figen Murray OBE
Figen Murray OBE is a counter terrorism expert and the initiator of Martyn's Law, otherwise known as the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025.
After spearheading the campaign for more than six years, Martyn's Law received Royal Assent on 3 April 2025.
Figen Murray's son, Martyn Hett, was one of 22 innocent victims murdered in the terror attack at the Manchester Arena on 22 May 2017. Figen turned tragedy into a force for good by initiating the campaign to introduce counter terrorism legislation which mandates public venues with a capacity greater than 200 to implement proportional measures, such as training or conducting risk assessments, to better protect the public in the event of a terror attack.
Figen Murray spearheaded a campaign team which included Nick Aldowrth, former Chief Superintendent for Metropolitan Police, Brendan Cox, founder of Survivors Against Terror, Nathan Emmerich, a strategic communications expert, and her husband, Stuart Murray, who supported Figen throughout the entirety of the campaign.
In May 2024, Figen walked more than 200 miles over 16 days from the spot where Martyn died at the Manchester Arena to 10 Downing Street in May 2024. Figen was joined by 100s of businesses and security professionals and caught the attention of national media, sustaining pressure on the Government.
After more than 6 years of campaigning, Martyn's Law received Royal Assent on 3 April 2025. Some of the key details to be aware of include:
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Businesses with a capacity between 200 and 799 will be subject to standard duty requirements.
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Businesses with a capacity of 800 and more will be subject to enhanced duty requirements.
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The Security Industry Authority (SIA) has been allocated responsibility for the regulation of Martyn’s Law which will not be enforceable until the implementation period ends in 2027.
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Although venues can take steps to prepare for the implementation of Martyn's Law, such as conducting simple risk assessments or completing free counter terrorism ACT e-learning, they do not need to spend money on consultancy fees or training and they should wait until the Home Office publishes its section 27 guidance before considering.
Whilst Martyn's Law can not stop all terrorist attacks, it will significantly reduce opportunities or deter terrorists to target certain areas where people congregate. Martyn's Law is designed to be proportionate and practicable. It does not aim to restrict people's free movement but ensures that public venues do all they can to improve the security and safety.
To read a summary of Martyn's Law requirements, click below.
Figen Murray OBE speaks live on BBC Breakfast on the final day of her 200 mile walk from Manchester to Downing Street on the 7th anniversary of the Manchester Arena attack.
Testimonials
"I would like to pay tribute to Figen Murray, who has been nothing short of inspirational in her campaign for this legislation and a driving force in making it happen."
Security Minister, Dan Jarvis
“Before I became Prime Minister, I promised Figen Murray that I would introduce Martyn’s Law, in memory of her son Martyn and all those who lost their lives the night of the Manchester Arena bombing.
“Figen’s courage in the face of such unimaginable loss is utterly humbling. Thanks to her campaigning, her son’s legacy will live on forever.”
Prime Minister, Sir Keir Starmer
"Martyn’s Law will significantly strengthen public safety across our country, I’d like to thank Figen Murray for her tireless work to make this law a reality."
Home Secretary, Yvette Cooper