Statement from Deputy Assistant Commissioner, Matt Twist, Senior National Coordinator for Protect & Prepare:
Firstly, and most importantly, I would like to pay tribute to the victims and their families, who are at the heart of the Public Inquiry, following the dreadful terrorist attack at the Manchester Arena. Their dignity and fortitude in the face of what must be a hugely distressing process is to be commended. I can only hope the seriousness with which the Public Inquiry has approached its task provides them with some reassurance.
I would like to thank the Chairman and his team for their careful examination of the evidence. We will now reflect on the recommendations, review the changes that we have already introduced and consider what else we can do to further improve.
We continue to be strong advocates for the Protect Duty and the benefits a legislative framework can provide for the consistent provision of protective security in crowded places across the country.
We recognise that the work that Counter Terrorism Policing does with business is a cornerstone of increasing the security of everyone. The appalling event of 22nd May 2017 has re-emphasised the continued need to work closer than ever before in partnership with businesses to address the challenges of countering terrorism across the UK. As well as our network of Counter Terrorism Security Advisers who provide expert advice, we also provide free guidance and online tools, including training packages, that can help all businesses prepare and protect themselves from the threats they may face.
Counter Terrorism Policing is fully committed to learning and evolving. We have already changed many aspects of the way we work and implemented recommendations from reviews into the terrible events of 2017. However we are not complacent and will continue to take every opportunity to support the Chairman through the rest of this Inquiry, so we can continue to improve and protect people from terrorism.
Read the full report at the Public Inquiry web site: https://manchesterarenainquiry.org.uk/