The Duke of Sussex's legal battle over his UK security arrangements has reached a critical juncture, with a High Court judge delivering a firm ultimatum. Mr Justice Swift has ordered Prince Harry to specifically prove three fundamental claims in his case against the Home Office, or risk having his judicial review claim struck out entirely.
The Three Pillars of Proof
Justice Swift's order requires Harry's legal team to demonstrate clear evidence for three contentious points that form the bedrock of his case. These include proving he received an explicit promise that he would retain the same level of security upon stepping back from royal duties, despite his changed status.
Furthermore, the Duke must provide concrete proof that the Executive Committee for the Protection of Royalty and Public Figures (Ravec) acted with apparent bias or was fundamentally unfair in their decision-making process regarding his security downgrade.
A Case Hanging in the Balance
This judicial order represents a significant moment in the long-running dispute. Legal experts suggest that if Harry's legal team, led by Shaheed Fatima KC, cannot substantiate these claims with solid evidence, the entire case could be dismissed without proceeding to a full trial.
The Home Office has consistently argued that Ravec's decision was justified and rational, based on Harry's changed circumstances—no longer being a 'working royal' and spending considerable time overseas. Their legal representatives maintain that security arrangements are routinely reviewed and adjusted based on individual circumstances.
The Stakes for Royal Security
This case has broader implications for how security is allocated to members of the royal family who step back from official duties. The outcome could set a significant precedent for future arrangements concerning non-working royals and their protection requirements while in the UK.
Prince Harry's legal team now faces intense pressure to deliver compelling evidence to support their claims before the next hearing. The world watches as this high-stakes legal drama continues to unfold in London's Royal Courts of Justice.
