London, United Kingdom – Prince Harry faced a legal setback as a London judge ruled that the U.K. government can withdraw his security detail during visits to Britain. The ruling may impact whether Harry, his wife Duchess Meghan, and their children Archie and Lilibet can travel to the United Kingdom.
Harry, 39, expressed plans to challenge the judge’s decision through an appeal. A spokesperson for the duke conveyed his intentions to appeal the judgment, seeking fair and lawful treatment in accordance with existing policies.
The ongoing legal battle stems from a 2020 decision when the U.K. government denied automatic police protection for the Sussex family. The Executive Committee for the Protection of Royalty and Public Figures made a case-by-case arrangement for their security during stays in the U.K.
Despite residing in California, Harry strives to secure police protection for his family in the United Kingdom and is willing to cover the costs personally. This recent ruling follows Harry’s visit to see his father, King Charles III, who is combating undisclosed cancer.
The trip marked the first time Harry reunited with Charles since attending his coronation in May. Harry has continued to emphasize his desire for police protection during visits to the U.K., especially for his children, Archie and Lilibet.
In an interview before the court ruling, Harry expressed plans for future visits to the United Kingdom. The family currently relies on privately-funded security measures similar to Princess Diana’s post-divorce arrangements in the late 1990s.
Harry’s pursuit of police protection echoes Princess Diana’s circumstances in relying on private security after her divorce. The comparison highlights Harry’s quest for enhanced security measures for his family, particularly following Princess Diana’s tragic demise in a car crash in 1997.
The dynamics of this legal battle bring to light Harry’s relentless efforts to ensure the safety of his family during visits to the United Kingdom. However, the court’s ruling poses challenges that could affect the frequency and nature of the Sussex family’s visits to Britain in the future.