Prince Harry is said to be 'devastated and close to tears' after learning that full-time police protection will not be provided for his upcoming UK visit with Meghan Markle and their children, according to a report by Vanity Fair. The Duke of Sussex is due to travel to Britain on July 7 for events supporting the Invictus Games Birmingham 2027, and had hoped to bring the Duchess of Sussex, Prince Archie, and Princess Lilibet.
Security Dispute with RAVEC
The Royal and VIP Executive Committee (RAVEC), which decides taxpayer-funded protective security on a case-by-case basis, informed Harry that full-time police protection would not be granted throughout the visit. Such protection is typically reserved for working members of the Royal Family. A Home Office spokesman reportedly stated that the government's position on Harry's security arrangements had not changed.
King Charles Offers Accommodation
King Charles has offered the Sussexes accommodation at a royal residence, believed to be Buckingham Palace, where they would have security while staying there. However, since the family had planned to travel to engagements in different parts of the country, they would not receive continuous police protection away from the residence. The Duke remains disappointed and believes his family requires greater protection while travelling in the UK.
Legal Challenges and Risk Assessment
Following Harry's legal challenges over his security arrangements, RAVEC began a fresh risk assessment late last year, but that review has yet to conclude. An unnamed source told Vanity Fair: 'He had assumed that because he was bringing the kids, and the king had made a royal residence available to them, he would get what he has been pushing for all along, full-time police protection. That has not been the case.' The source added: 'The king has made it clear that while he wants to see his estranged son and grandchildren, he will not intervene in security matters.'
Planned Engagements
Harry's planned visit includes engagements with the Invictus Games Foundation at Chatham House in London and the Royal Hospital Chelsea. He no longer has an official UK residence, but the King's offer of accommodation remains open. It is understood the Duke has yet to respond.
