“ The learnings from this lengthy episode will stay with us . We are more resilient . As an industry we are beginning to realise our worth , and to appreciate we must speak about our sector more consistently , and loudly .”
Managing director of conventions and exhibitions at the NEC Ian Taylor
£ 67.5m
Results of government venue security consultation
Venues should be responsible for protecting visitors from terrorism , the Home Office has said .
The government has published the results of is consultation into proposed Protect Duty legislation , suggesting new laws could apply to any venue with capacity of 100 or more .
The Protect Duty has been championed by victims ’ groups , including the Martyn ’ s Law campaign , established by Figen Murray following the loss of her son , Martyn , in the Manchester Arena attack in 2017 .
Most respondents to the consultation agreed that legislation should primarily apply to publicly accessible locations with capacities of more than 100 visitors .
Half the respondents were in favour of an inspectorate that would identify key vulnerabilities and areas for improvement . There was also an even split of those who were supportive of the use of civil penalties to ensure compliance to the duty .
The government said a further impact assessment would consider financial implications , in tandem with any wider impact . A recurring subject throughout the consultation and its responses was concern that the duty may negatively impact organisations financially .
Analysis revealed that 66 % of respondents to this question disagreed with the government ’ s cost and benefit estimates .
Minister for Security and Borders Damian Hinds MP said : “ The Protect Duty would be one means by which we seek to further enhance public security , sitting alongside our existing and ongoing work programmes to achieve this aim .
“ It is right that those responsible for public places should take measures to protect the public and to prepare their staff to respond appropriately .
“ The responses also highlighted the challenge of which organisations should be in the scope , and what would constitute proportionate security measures .”
Value of the new Coatham Arena planned for north Yorkshire .
2,755
The number of responses to the government consultation on Protect Duty legislation .
260
New toys due to be launched at the Toy Fair at Olympia London .
1,000
The number of exhibitors due at Hyve ’ s spring fair in February .
685,000
Visitors who attended an exhibition at Birminghams NEC in 2021 .
February — 07