Prince Harry is reportedly 'distraught' after the UK government declined his request for police protection, throwing their planned family visit into uncertainty. The Duke of Sussex had been looking forward to bringing his children, Archie and Lilibet, to meet King Charles for the first time since 2022.
Visit Cancelled at the Last Minute
The trip, which was to include events related to the Invictus Games in Birmingham, was 'pulled out from under their feet at the 11th hour,' according to a source close to Harry. The Duke had been awaiting a decision from the Royal and VIP Executive Committee (Ravec) regarding security arrangements, but the government declined his request for police protection outside royal residences.
A source told the Guardian: 'Their plans to see family, friends and visit various charitable causes close to the duke's heart have been pulled out from under their feet at the 11th hour. He's looking at every option to try and get the family here safely and keep them safe when they're on the ground. If he can find a way to do that he will.'
Fear for Children's Safety
The source added that Harry fears his children would be 'chased by paparazzi wherever they go from the moment they step off the plane' and that he 'won't put his children through that.' The Duke is exploring other options to make the trip happen but remains concerned that proper security is essential.
The visit would have been the first time King Charles saw his youngest grandchildren, Archie and Lilibet, in person since the Platinum Jubilee in 2022. Harry met his father last September, which was seen as a step towards improving relations after Harry's public criticisms in his memoir, Spare, and television interviews.
Legal Battle Over Security
Last year, Harry lost a legal challenge against the Home Office regarding automatic police protection while in the UK. He had argued it was not safe to bring his family without it. Since then, he underwent a full risk assessment and was awaiting a final decision from Ravec, which includes representatives from the royal household, Home Office, Cabinet Office, and Metropolitan Police.
A government spokesperson stated: 'The UK government's protective security system is rigorous and proportionate. It is our longstanding policy not to provide detailed information on those arrangements, as doing so could compromise their integrity and affect individuals' security.'
Hopes for Family Reunion Dashed
The source expressed hope that the children could meet their grandfather, but said 'there is no way that can happen if they are chased by paparazzi.' An LA-based business associate noted a 'warming of the frost' between the king and his youngest son, but this setback may strain relations again.
