Prince Harry is reportedly reconsidering bringing Meghan Markle and their children to the UK for a visit after a request for police protection was allegedly turned down.
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex had intended to travel to the UK next month to participate in events leading up to Harry’s 2027 Invictus Games in Birmingham. They planned to bring their children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet, on this trip, marking their first visit together to the UK in four years.
Prince Harry’s team formally requested taxpayer-funded security from the police, but they were informed on Friday that the request had been denied. The family was scheduled to arrive in the UK in early July and stay for a week, with this trip being Lilibet’s inaugural visit to the UK. Harry, who had previously expressed concerns about safety in the UK for his family, had apparently changed his mind this time and accepted an offer to stay at a royal residence, likely Buckingham Palace.
In the past, Prince Harry had declined offers to stay in royal residences during previous UK visits. Now, the visit is uncertain as the prince is reportedly reconsidering bringing Meghan and the children due to the security situation.
Prince Harry lost his police protection in 2022 when he and Meghan left the royal family and moved to the US. He was instructed to provide 30 days’ notice to the Royal and VIP Executive Committee (Ravec) for any planned UK visits.
According to reports, Prince Harry had been increasingly frustrated by the delay in reviewing his request for security funding, which had been ongoing for over six months. Sources indicated that he was disappointed by the security rejection, especially as it came shortly before their planned departure.
A source close to the Duke mentioned that he had become frustrated with the process and had to change his plans, ultimately deciding to accept the offer of staying at a royal residence for the upcoming trip.
The Times reported that Prince Harry primarily wanted his children to see their grandfather during the visit but was reconsidering the safety aspect of bringing the young children.
A government spokesperson emphasized that the UK Government’s security system is stringent and balanced, with a policy of not disclosing specific security arrangements to maintain their effectiveness and individuals’ safety.
Ravec handles security decisions on behalf of the government, and the Home Secretary is not involved in individual decisions. The couple had reportedly planned several family outings during the visit, including a visit to Diana’s grave at Althorp House.
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