The Duke of Sussex is reportedly concerned that his children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet, will not be able to meet King Charles during their planned UK visit next month after the government declined his request for police protection. A source close to Harry described him as 'distraught' over the development.
The visit, which would have been the first time the family travelled to Britain together in four years, was intended to include events related to the Invictus Games in Birmingham. Harry had been looking forward to reuniting his children with their grandfather, King Charles, whom they have not seen in person since 2022.
The source said the plans were 'pulled out from under their feet at the 11th hour' and that Harry would not subject his children to being 'chased by paparazzi wherever they go from the moment they step off the plane'. The duke is exploring other options but fears the trip may not be possible without proper security.
Last year, Harry lost a legal challenge against the Home Office over automatic police protection while in the UK. He had been awaiting a final decision from the Royal and VIP Executive Committee (Ravec), which is responsible for authorising such protection. A government spokesperson stated that the protective security system is 'rigorous and proportionate' and declined to provide further details.
Harry met his father in September 2024, their first face-to-face meeting since February of that year, which was seen as a step towards improving relations. An associate of the couple noted a 'warming of the frost' between the king and his youngest son.
