Overview

This bill mandates a government consultation on implementing a “Duty to Plan” for terrorism. The consultation will explore whether to require Category 1 responders (e.g., emergency services) and those responsible for public access places to plan for and mitigate terrorist threats.

Description

The bill compels the Secretary of State to conduct a consultation within six months of the bill passing. This consultation will involve various groups (detailed below) and cover four key areas:

• Duty on Category 1 Responders: Should Category 1 responders be legally obligated to plan for terrorist threats?
• Advice and Training: Should those responsible for public spaces be required to receive training and advice on counter-terrorism?
• Vulnerability Assessments: Should those responsible for public spaces be mandated to assess their vulnerability to terrorist attacks?
• Mitigation Plans: Should those responsible for public spaces be required to develop and implement mitigation plans based on the assessments?

The Secretary of State must then present a report to Parliament outlining plans for potential future legislation based on the consultation’s findings.

Government Spending

The bill itself doesn't directly allocate funds. The cost of the consultation and any subsequent legislation will depend on the consultation's outcomes and the government's response. No specific figures are provided in the bill.

Groups Affected

The consultation will affect, and potentially impact, the following groups:

• Category 1 Responders: (e.g., police, fire services, ambulance services, local authorities) – facing potential new planning duties.
• Businesses open to the public: (e.g., shops, restaurants) – facing potential new security requirements and costs.
• Entertainment and Sporting Venues: facing potential new security requirements and costs.
• Educational Institutions: facing potential new security requirements and costs.
• Places of Worship: facing potential new security requirements and costs.
• Victims of Terrorism: Their views will be sought during the consultation process.
• Licensing and Regulatory Bodies: their roles may be expanded to encompass counter-terrorism planning.

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