The Duke of Sussex is reportedly reconsidering plans to bring his wife Meghan and their children to the UK in July after his request for police protection was rejected. His team made a formal request for police security during the visit, but it is understood they were told on Friday that no taxpayer-funded security would be provided.
Harry 'Distraught' Over Security Decision
Sources told the BBC that Prince Harry is distraught about the decision, made just days before the family is due to arrive. Harry, 41, is still keen to bring Meghan, 44, Archie, seven, and Lilibet, five, on the week-long trip during which the family hope to meet King Charles, and will seek to find a way to 'make the trip work'.
They had already accepted an offer to stay on a royal estate during the trip as a guest of King Charles. The location of the royal residence has not been made public.
Legal Battle and Previous Security Issues
Last year, Harry lost a legal battle to have regular police protection while visiting in the UK. The Duke is visiting to start the year-long countdown to next year's Invictus Games in Birmingham, which he continues to support. He is also reportedly planning to take his children to Althorp, Northants, to visit the grave of his mother, Princess Diana.
Final Decision Pending
A final decision on the trip and the involvement of Prince Harry's wife and children will be made in the coming days. A source told the Sun: 'Harry is reassessing things. Ultimately, he is going to do everything he can to find a way to bring the family over safely.'
A Government spokesman said: 'Our protective security system is rigorous and proportionate. It's our long-standing policy not to provide detailed information on arrangements as doing so could compromise their integrity and affect individuals' security.'
Family Reunion with King Charles
The last time the King saw his grandchildren in person was during Queen Elizabeth II's Platinum Jubilee celebrations in 2022. Harry last saw his father back in September when he had tea with the King at Clarence House, which was their first face-to-face meeting since February 2024.
