Address Arena failings identified in Volume 1
Improvements, to the extent that they have not already been made, should be made at the Arena to address the failings identified in Volume 1. Specific consideration should be given to how to address my concerns in relation to complacency.
How was this assessed?
Response
Accepted
Response
AcceptedThe Home Secretary made a written statement to Parliament on 3 November 2022 following publication of Volume 2, acknowledging the findings on emergency response failures and stating the government would work with emergency services to implement improvements. The response committed to reviewing interoperability arrangements between emergency services and strengthening joint training and exercising protocols for major incidents.
Progress Timeline
The Arena, and every SMG venue, now has a dedicated security manager, each of whom is required to complete an Advanced Diploma in Counter-Terrorism Risk Management. All SMG venues, including Manchester Arena, now also use a risk assessment toolkit to calculate risk and identify mitigation measures. To guard against complacency in regards patrolling of its venues, SMG have introduced a digital system which provides real-time monitoring of patrols, an audit trail of patrols which have already taken place and an easily accessible place for staff to report suspicious activity. Staff briefings, which take place before every event at an SMG venue, now include a reminder for staff of the importance of reporting suspicious behaviour. All SMG staff must now undergo ACT (Action Counters Terrorism) training as part of their induction, and the training is provided on a continuous refresher basis.
The Arena, and every SMG venue, now has a dedicated security manager, each of whom is required to complete an Advanced Diploma in Counter-Terrorism Risk Management. All SMG venues, including Manchester Arena, now also use a risk assessment toolkit to calculate risk and identify mitigation measures. To guard against complacency in regards patrolling of its venues, SMG have introduced a digital system which provides real-time monitoring of patrols, an audit trail of patrols which have already taken place and an easily accessible place for staff to report suspicious activity. Staff briefings, which take place before every event at an SMG venue, now include a reminder for staff of the importance of reporting suspicious behaviour. All SMG staff must now undergo ACT (Action Counters Terrorism) training as part of their induction, and the training is provided on a continuous refresher basis.
Published Evidence
Published assessments of implementation progress from inspectorates, select committees, official progress reports, and other sources. Check the source type badge to see whether each assessment is independent or government self-reported.
Government published formal Manchester Arena Inquiry recommendations dashboard on GOV.UK (14 November 2025) tracking all 149 recommendations with implementation progress updates.
Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025 received Royal Assent 3 April 2025. Creates two tiers: Standard Duty (200-799 capacity) and Enhanced Duty (800+). SIA will be regulator. Not yet in force -- at least 24 months before enforcement (expected April 2027).
NPCC, Counter Terrorism Policing and College of Policing provided comprehensive updates to Sir John Saunders demonstrating "continued drive to improve collective response to terrorist incidents."
View detailed findings
Representatives working with UK Intelligence Community to address closed Volume Three recommendations. Cross-government monitoring ongoing.