The Night Time Industries Association (NTIA) has raised concerns about the newly proposed measures outlined in King Charles’ first speech to the UK. The King’s speech set out the country’s legislative agenda for 2024 and prioritized growing the economy, strengthening society, and keeping people safe. However, the NTIA worries that this legislation could deepen the gap between policing and the Late Night Economy, particularly with the introduction of the Terrorism Draft Bill (Protect Duty), also known as Martyn’s Law, which will heighten security in the nightlife sector.
The NTIA recognizes the importance of the bill in ensuring safety but fears the potential implications of these measures. They worry that the measures could become a divisive tool between policing and the nightlife industry, leading to a crackdown on the sector. Michael Kill, CEO of NTIA, urged authorities to work hand in hand with them to ensure the safety and vibrancy of the city. He stressed that their industry is all about open dialogue, cooperation, and shared responsibility, and they want to preserve its vitality.
Kill implored the Government, the Home Secretary, and policing authorities to see the measures as an opportunity to build strong partnerships and help the industry thrive. He hopes that they do not pull them apart and will instead unite them, as their industry is all about collaboration.
The NTIA recently launched the ‘Listen for Life’ campaign in support of the nightlife sector, highlighting the challenges it faces. They stated that 35 independent nightlife businesses are lost in the UK each week, indicating the industry’s fragility. The nightlife sector is the heartbeat of the city, and the NTIA is passionate about preserving its vitality. They recognize the importance of safety measures but want to ensure that these measures do not become a source of division between the industry and policing authorities
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