Prince Harry’s recent move to request the reinstatement of his taxpayer-funded security in the UK could potentially open the door for him to bring his children, Archie and Lilibet, back for visits, a royal expert has suggested.
Renewed Request for Security Protection
The Duke of Sussex has submitted a formal appeal to Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood, asking for his security arrangements to be reviewed. Earlier this month, he approached the Royal and VIP Executive Committee (Ravec), which operates under the Home Office, requesting an official risk assessment.
Harry lost his automatic taxpayer-funded protection in 2020 after stepping down as a working royal, and he has continued to seek reinstatement. In May, he faced a setback when his High Court appeal was dismissed, prompting him to state in an interview that he could not “see a world in which I would be bringing my wife and children back to the UK.”
Expert Supports His Concerns
Royal commentator Jennie Bond acknowledged Harry’s concerns, stating, “As the King’s son and as a former army officer, Harry clearly is a target.” She added that while he should not receive security at UK taxpayers’ expense permanently, it would be reasonable for him to be protected by the Metropolitan Police during visits to Britain.
Bond suggested that enhanced security could enable Harry to bring his children—and possibly Meghan—back to the UK, something she described as meaningful for King Charles. “If there were to be an upgrade to his security arrangements, it could clear the way for him to bring his children… to visit the family back home. And that would be something very special for our elderly monarch,” she said.
Appeal to the Home Secretary
Bond emphasized that Harry has the right to present his case. “I can quite understand why he wants to put his case to the Home Secretary and see what can be done during any future visits to the UK.”
She also referenced Harry’s argument that former prime ministers receive lifelong protection, suggesting Ravec should conduct a new assessment as per its own rules.
Despite showing sympathy for Harry’s position, Bond warned him against drawing King Charles directly into the situation, saying, “Harry would do well to avoid drawing his father into his dispute, as that does put the King in a very difficult position.”
Official Confirmation
A source close to Harry confirmed that he has reached out to the Home Secretary for a new risk management board, noting that the last one took place in 2019. “All he’s asking is for Ravec to abide by its own rules,” the insider said.
The Home Office acknowledged receipt of Harry’s petition but declined to comment on individual security matters. A spokesperson stated, “The UK Government’s protective security system is rigorous and proportionate… it is our long-standing policy not to provide detailed information on those arrangements, as doing so could compromise their integrity and affect individuals’ security.”
