PROTECTING PEOPLE AT ALL VENUES

Iwas thrilled to see that the prime minister presented the draft bill for Martyn’s Law on 2nd May. Although it was an important step, I appreciated the long journey that still lay ahead. Rishi Sunak explained it at great length during our telephone conversation on 15th December. I knew that the next big step would be the two-month period of scrutiny led by the Home Affairs Select Committee, standard procedure for proposed legislation to undergo. This process started on 6th June, and I was allowed the privilege to give evidence alongside Nick Aldworth as the first two witnesses to appear. Since I started this journey, nerves never came into play, yet I suddenly felt very anxious about this day. What finally hit me after all these months of campaigning and speaking about the legislation was the realisation that what we are working on is so important. At one point I had a “What have I started” moment. The enormity of the responsibility suddenly hit me, the importance of the legislation dawned on me, and I knew how exceptionally difficult it would be sitting in that room. There was a lot of kindness and care in the room towards me, the grieving mother. But then other witnesses appeared, and a healthy debate ensued. Martyn’s Law clearly was not popular amongst all people present in the room. The final day of evidence led me to go on another trip to London on 20th June. I did not want to miss this significant day, needed to hear what people were asked and what answers would be given. But this day felt very different. Scrutiny was harsh and relentless! Misunderstanding hung in the room and led to confusion, maybe even irritation for some. It was very difficult to sit, yet not being able to speak, object or explain.

WHAT’S NEXT?

The committee has just delivered its report to be presented to the Home Office. I guess thereafter the Home Office will take the comments on board and adapt the legislation before government goes into summer recess. E