Prince Harry is reportedly furious after the UK government denied his request for taxpayer-funded police protection during his planned visit to Britain with Meghan Markle and their children, Archie and Lilibet, this July. According to a new episode of the Daily Expresso show with TalkTV host Mark Dolan, the Duke of Sussex's application for armed guards outside royal properties was rejected, leaving him feeling 'spitting feathers' and 'throwing his toys out the pram,' as described by commentator JJ.
Security Denial Sparks Anger
JJ revealed on the show that Harry's request for police protection outside royal residencies did not go through, meaning he will not have armed guards unless he is on royal properties. Mark Dolan added that the decision has driven Harry crazy, calling his reaction 'very in character for Harry Mountbatten-Windsor.' Dolan lamented that what could have been a wonderful opportunity for Harry to rebuild his relationship with his father, King Charles, and rejoin the royal family is now 'up in smoke.'
Family Visit in Jeopardy
The Sussexes' trip, which would have been their first family visit to the UK in four years, is now uncertain. A source close to Harry told The Guardian that while the duke wants his children to meet their grandfather, he does not want them to be 'chased by paparazzi wherever they go from the moment they step off the plane.' The source added that plans to see family, friends, and visit charitable causes have been 'pulled out from under their feet at the eleventh hour.' King Charles has offered accommodation at one of the royal estates, but whether the family will return together remains unclear.
Ongoing Security Battle
Harry has been in a long-running legal battle over his security arrangements in the UK. After stepping down as a working royal in 2020, he lost the right to automatic police protection. He has offered to pay for security himself, but the UK government maintains that the decision on protective security is made by the Royal and VIP Executive Committee (Ravec), which operates independently. The duke's request for judicial review of the decision was dismissed in February 2024, though he has appealed. The latest setback appears to have further strained his relationship with the royal family.
