Prince Harry’s ongoing efforts to revise his security arrangements in the UK have been a prominent topic for several years. Despite facing setbacks, including a recent ruling against him by the Court of Appeal, Prince Harry remains determined to pursue changes.
A close source to the Duke of Sussex revealed that he reached out to the newly appointed Home Secretary, Shabana Mahmood, to formally request a risk assessment by the Executive Committee for the Protection of Royalty and Public Figures (Ravec), which operates under the Home Office. This initiative follows Harry’s unsuccessful legal challenge in May regarding the level of taxpayer-funded protection he should receive while in the UK.
Since stepping back from his royal duties, Prince Harry no longer automatically qualifies for police security and currently relies on customized protection on a situational basis.
Jennie Bond, a former BBC royal correspondent, noted that a positive outcome from Prince Harry’s recent actions could facilitate increased time for his father, the King, to spend with his grandchildren, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet. Bond emphasized the importance of reassessing Harry’s security needs, considering his status as a former military officer and a member of the royal family.
While acknowledging concerns for his family’s safety, Prince Harry has refrained from bringing his children to the UK without adequate security. Bond suggested that it would be reasonable for Harry to receive security assistance from the Metropolitan Police while in the UK, similar to the protection provided to former Prime Ministers.
Following his legal challenges and relocation to the United States, Prince Harry expressed reservations about returning to the UK with his family due to security concerns. Despite these challenges, he remains committed to addressing the security issue and seeking potential solutions during future visits to the UK.
In a recent interview, Prince Harry raised the issue of security control within the royal family and expressed his intention to engage with current officials, including the Home Secretary and the Prime Minister, to address his security needs.
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex’s decision to step back from senior royal duties and relocate to North America and later California prompted the legal battle over security arrangements in the UK.