The Duke and Duchess of Sussex are waiting to learn whether they will be granted taxpayer-funded security in the UK, a decision that could determine whether their return to Britain becomes permanent. Prince William is reportedly hoping the outcome goes against them.
Harry and Meghan moved back to the UK in August after six years abroad, but have not yet explained their reasons. The duke has previously cited the lack of police protection as the sole argument against bringing his children to Britain. Their security was reduced after they stepped down as working royals in 2020, and Harry has campaigned for its reinstatement ever since.
Pressure on the Palace
Recent reports suggest the Sussexes have adopted an approach "akin to blackmail", pressuring the Palace to ensure the decision goes their way, or else they could return to their private mansion in California. While they may count on King Charles's sympathy and his desire to spend time with his grandchildren, they could have underestimated Prince William.
An insider told Heat World: "William doesn't believe they'll even last another six months. He's counting on them giving up and moving back to America as soon as they realise they can't just bulldoze their way into getting everything they want."
The insider added that William is "keeping his distance" from the security battle "because he knows anything he does will be used against him" and is "counting on the powers that be to do the right thing".
Strained relations
The estrangement between William and Harry is clear. They have not met on any of the duke's trips back to Britain in the last six years, and Harry has been open about the distance, including detailing a physical altercation in his 2023 memoir Spare.
The King has been adamant that a "half in, half out" return to royal duties is out of the question, and has specified the Sussexes' status as "private citizens", to whom taxpayer cash would not be allocated.
Daily life disrupted
Since their move, the lack of paid-for protection has overshadowed any commercial benefits. The couple have hinted their security situation is disrupting daily life, leading to a hurried change of school for Archie and Lilibet days into the new term, when the drive proved too much for a private security detail, and panic over international photographers spotted outside the new site.
The security review's results will rest with the Home Office and could go in either direction. If Harry and Meghan perceive further persecution from the Palace, they may decide the hassle is not worth their while and head back to America. William will likely be hoping they do, before what is currently his father's problem lands on his plate.
