Prince Harry and his family will stay at a royal residence when they visit the UK next month, as they fear for their safety. The Duke of Sussex is due to attend the one-year countdown to the Invictus Games in Birmingham on July 10, alongside his wife Meghan.
Security Review Delay
A review into Harry's claim for taxpayer-funded security has taken six months. It has now been completed but Harry has not been informed of the outcome. A source close to the Duke said: 'He has grown increasingly frustrated with the whole process and has had to alter his standpoint. From initially being told a decision would be made within a matter of weeks, it is now more than six months on.'
Decision to Stay at Royal Residence
The source added: 'He was determined to travel back to the UK with his family around the Invictus event, so he has finally made the decision to accept the offer of staying at a royal residence which he believes will be sufficient.' It is understood the family will stay at Buckingham Palace for next month’s trip.
Previous Safety Concerns
Harry, 41, who will travel with his wife Meghan and their children Archie, seven, and Lilibet, five, has previously said the country of his birth is 'not safe'. On solo trips to the UK, Harry has refused offers to stay at a royal residence since quitting as an active royal in 2020.
Legal Battle Over Security
Harry lost a High Court battle and a subsequent hearing at the Court of Appeal to retain his police protection last year, before making an appeal to Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood. In a letter, Harry is understood to have claimed that threats against his safety remain, despite his exit from the royal fold. The visit is the first time the family have been in the UK together since 2022, when they attended Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee.
Meghan's Interest in Invictus Games
Sources close to the Sussexes have also revealed that the Duchess has taken a 'considerable interest' in the Invictus Games and was 'determined' to make the visit to Birmingham. The Duke’s spokesperson did not respond to a request for comment.
