Prince Harry is reportedly making a 'desperate' attempt to resolve the security chaos surrounding his upcoming visit to the United Kingdom next month. The Duke of Sussex, 41, is scheduled to travel to the UK with his wife Meghan Markle and their children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet, between July 7 and 11. However, uncertainty arose last week after it emerged that the Executive Committee for the Protection of Royalty and Public Figures (RAVEC) had 'paused' the independent Risk Management Board (RMB) without providing an explanation.
Background of the Security Dispute
The Duke of Sussex's office had previously been informed that the security issue would have been resolved by March of this year. A spokesperson for Harry stated that he 'continues to explore every available option to enable the visit to proceed safely and to give his children the opportunity to enjoy the UK.' The situation has been described as 'chaotic' by royal commentators.
Royal Expert Weighs In
Royal expert Richard Fitzwilliams told GB News that the Sussexes only have themselves to blame for the public nature of the dispute. 'On the one hand, it is very curious indeed that the assessment by RAVEC, which was promised last December after he lobbied the Home Secretary, has not taken place. This has always been a red line for him after the tragic death of his mother,' Fitzwilliams said. He added, 'The fault here is that the Sussexes have planned this so publicly – the rift is deep.'
King's Offer of Royal Residence
The King has reportedly offered a royal residence to Harry and Meghan for their upcoming visit, an offer that the couple have yet to respond to. It is understood that security would be included in the stay. The family has not visited the UK together since June 2022, when they traveled for Lilibet's first birthday. Meghan has not been to the UK since September 2022.
Travel Plans and Next Steps
It has been reported that the Sussex family is currently traveling around Europe before their UK return. Harry's office continues to seek a resolution to the security impasse, with the visit's viability hanging in the balance.
