Prince Harry is set to visit the UK this week without his wife Meghan Markle and their children, Archie and Lilibet, following disputes over security arrangements. The visit has been marked by confusion and conflicting statements, with Buckingham Palace withdrawing an offer of accommodation at a royal residence.
Security Dispute Leads to Family Staying Behind
Harry's decision to travel alone stems from the Royal and VIP Executive Committee (RAVEC) denying security for his family. A spokesman for the duke stated that after RAVEC's decision, Harry spent last week arranging alternative security measures. Once those were in place, he formally accepted the Palace's accommodation offer over the weekend.
Palace Withdraws Accommodation Offer
However, Buckingham Palace later withdrew the offer, citing Tuesday's judgment in the Associated Newspapers Limited case as the reason. Harry's spokesman expressed disappointment, noting that the Palace had been aware of the judgment since the previous Thursday. The spokesman questioned why the offer was withdrawn at the last moment after being formally accepted.
Buckingham Palace said the decision was made in consultation with King Charles III, and the outcome was communicated to Harry through appropriate channels. It is understood that accommodation at a royal residence will be made available for future visits.
Media Reports of 'Chaos' and 'Misbriefing'
The Daily Mail's Palace Confidential Editor-at-Large, Alison Boshoff, described the situation as chaotic. She said she had asked the Sussexes' camp for an update on July 2 but received no response. The following day, they issued an operational note to favored reporters detailing the visit's schedule. However, Boshoff noted that the next day, guidance changed, suggesting Harry might not come at all. She described the events as falling down around their ears in an unedifying, chaotic, and misbriefed way.
Harry's Spokesman Responds
Harry's spokesman confirmed on July 6 that the duke was aware of multiple briefings from Buckingham Palace suggesting he had not accepted the accommodation offer. The spokesman reiterated that the offer was formally accepted after alternative security arrangements were made. He expressed disappointment that the offer was withdrawn, given the Palace's prior knowledge of the relevant court judgment.
PA reports that the Palace's decision was taken in consultation with the King, and accommodation will be available for future visits. The visit continues amid ongoing tensions between Harry and the royal family.
