Prince Harry has been heavily criticized on the YouTube show The Royals Uncensored for what was described as an 'offensive' gesture toward King Charles ahead of his upcoming UK visit. The Duke of Sussex is due to return to London with his wife, Meghan Markle, and their two children for the first time in four years, but the trip is now uncertain after his request for police protection was rejected.
King Charles Offers Royal Residence
King Charles extended an offer for the Sussexes to stay at a royal residence, which would provide a substantial level of security. However, the couple will not receive full police protection funded by taxpayers, which might have included a police escort when traveling across the country. Palace aides have reportedly not received an official response from Harry regarding the accommodation offer.
During the show, host Katie Nicholl accused the prince of 'bad manners' for not acknowledging the King's offer. 'It's the height of bad manners, if you're offered a royal residence - at least let the King know!' she said. Former royal butler Grant Harrold suggested possible properties, including Highgrove, Harry's childhood home, or residences on the Windsor estate.
Security Concerns Remain Unresolved
Harry has consistently stated he wants to bring his children to Britain so they can discover their heritage, but since his police protection was withdrawn in 2020 when he stepped back as a working royal, he has declined to do so due to safety concerns. The dad-of-two had reportedly anticipated that his security arrangements would be altered for this visit. When RAVEC, the Royal and VIP Executive Committee, informed the couple that this would not happen, Harry was said to have been 'devastated'.
A Government spokesperson stated that the protective security system was 'rigorous and proportionate'. A source said Harry 'has grown increasingly frustrated with the whole process and has had to alter his standpoint' on their upcoming plans. The Home Office confirmed there is no change to the security arrangements, and Harry will not receive police protection.
