House of Commons · Westminster Hall
10 July 2025 · 8 other contributors · 13,257 words
Opened by Andy MacNae Lab Rossendale and Darwen
Responding minister: Dan Jarvis
Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.
Andy MacNae raised concerns about victims of terrorism: state support in Westminster Hall. A government minister responded.
Key points
Key requests to Government
MacNae asks for substantive improvements in support for victims of terrorism through the implementation of Martyn’s law and consultation on a survivors’ charter to ensure proactive personal support, dedicated caseworkers, continuity of care, and outreach to prevent individuals from falling through the cracks post-attack.
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.
Opened the debate
In a week when we remember the victims of the 7/7 attacks and all terror attacks, Andy MacNae highlights the lack of support provided by previous Governments to British victims of terror. He cites specific instances where individuals like Travis Frain received inadequate care post-attack, including delayed medical appointments and insufficient mental health support.
Thanked the Minister for his response and noted the personal impact of terrorism on MPs. Emphasised the cross-party consensus in addressing the issue.
Recalled the impact of the Brighton bomb and highlighted it as a cross-party issue, emphasizing the long-term effects on survivors and their families. Praised Figen Murray and paid tribute to Jo Cox, Sir David Amess, and PC Keith Palmer.
Asked for assurances on retaining institutional knowledge.
Shared his personal experience with terrorism, mentioning the murder of his cousin Kenneth Smyth in Northern Ireland. He highlighted the long-term impact of such events on victims and their families. Showed how raw the impact of terrorism is even decades later, emphasizing the lasting effects on survivors and their families. Discussed his experiences with terrorism in Northern Ireland, emphasizing truth and justice.
He highlighted the importance of recognising individuals behind the statistics of terrorism incidents and discussed the work done by Tessa Jowell to support victims after the 7/7 bombings. Told the story of Christian, who was 13 when he suffered trauma from terrorism, highlighting the need for both short-term and long-term support for victims. Spoke about Tessa Jowell's work and the trauma of a constituent affected by terrorism.
Recognised the Minister's commitment to transparency by publishing some findings of the Victims of Terrorism Unit report, and joined calls for full publication of recommendations.
Discussed the importance of proper support systems for victims and survivors of terrorism, citing the Manchester Arena bombings as a critical example. Emphasized the need for a single point of contact for assistance and outlined four key initiatives to improve victim support. Talked about the Manchester Arena bombing and Figen Murray's campaign for Martyn’s law.
Paid tribute to those who serve and face down terrorism, acknowledging that today's debate is also about remembering them. Emphasized the importance of support for both victims and those who protect against terrorism. The hon. Member paid tribute to victims of the 7/7 bombings in London, highlighting the need for trauma counselling, long-term care, access to justice, including legal representation during inquests and coroner proceedings. He also criticised the lack of automatic non-means-tested legal aid for bereaved families after state-related deaths. Made a good job of precisining some of the arguments in favour of better support for terrorism victims, focusing on publishing Home Office review recommendations.
Government Response
Dan JarvisThe Minister for Security
The Government is committed to supporting victims and survivors of terrorism through a comprehensive review of their needs. A dedicated support hub will provide a single point of contact, and plans include a national day to remember and recognise these individuals. The Minister reassures that measures being implemented reflect insights from the internal review, covering areas like mental health, financial support, legal guidance, and care for children. Announced up to £3.5 million funding through a partnership with Pool Re, ensuring comprehensive support including dedicated caseworkers and psychological assistance. Emphasised commitment to improving financial compensation processes and collaborating with CICA for better communication and handling of cases. Acknowledged the courage of victims and survivors who shared their stories during the review. Announced plans to transform support through a dedicated hub, introduce a national day for victims and survivors, and continue important work towards delivering long-called-for changes.