Nearly two years after the terrorist attack on Manchester Arena, a report by Greater Manchester’s Mayor Andy Burnham has recommended that the Government should launch a review into security at major venues.
The update followed a report by former head of the Civil Service Lord Bob Kerslake that assessed the emergency response to the 2017 attack.
Burnham supported calls made by Figen Murray, the mother of victim Martyn Hett for the introduction of “Martyn’s Law” ,which would make metal detectors and bag searches obligatory for big public venues.
“I believe there is a clear case for a thorough review of security measures at major sporting and entertainment event venues to establish clearly understood mandatory standards and I call on the Government to initiate one.” said the Mayor adding:
“We need to have clear minimum and mandatory standards at all venues so there is clarity for operators and confidence for the public.”
The updated report said the fire service had carried out a “root-and-branch review” and taken steps to clarify command roles and responsibilities, including carrying out training alongside other blue-light services, issues that were criticised in The Kerslake Report.
Vodafone had also given guarantees to government that the “catastrophic failure” of its emergency phone system would not happen again, the update said.
The update also noted progress within Greater Manchester Police, which has enhanced senior officer capacity and resilience during major incidents, and mental health trusts throughout the region, which developed a joint response plan to improve provision of services for those who experience trauma.
Beverley Hughes, deputy mayor for policing and crime, added: “This important update shows encouraging progress in all areas. Clearly, there is still much work to do but that’s only to be expected due to the thoroughness of the report.”
