Prince Harry's offer to stay at Buckingham Palace during his UK visit was withdrawn, and a former Royal Family employee claims the Duke of Sussex could have been accommodated with ease. Harry arrived in London on Monday, July 6, the same day it was confirmed he would not reside at the Palace. Reports indicate the offer was retracted because Harry took too long to respond, leaving insufficient notice for arrangements.
Former Royal Protection Officer Weighs In
Dai Davies, former Head of Royal Protection, appeared on TalkTV to discuss the situation. He stated, "There are 775 rooms in Buckingham Palace and X amount of suites which I would have thought could be ready in a matter of hours." Davies speculated that the incident may indicate more than a logistical issue, saying, "I don't know what this is about. I suspect there's a lot more underneath the surface going on. It's turned into a debacle. It's not doing any good for the reputation of anyone, Harry in particular."
Security Concerns and Family Dynamics
Harry had originally planned to bring his wife Meghan Markle and their children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet, but decided against it after his request for taxpayer-funded security was denied. Davies noted that Harry has visited the UK six times in recent years without security issues. He acknowledged a stalker incident in the High Court but argued that reflects on court security, not Harry's personal threat level. Davies added, "The last time armed officers were required was in 1974 when Princess Anne was attacked by a lunatic and unfortunately four people got shot."
Davies emphasized that Harry's security case would have been reviewed thoroughly, and if he truly needed 24-hour protection, he would have received it. "I understand he would like it, his ego would like it and I have no doubt his wife would like it. This should have happened quietly and below the radar," Davies said. TalkTV presenter Julia Hartley-Brewer countered that Harry deserves the highest protection, but Davies responded, "I respect your point of view. I assure you, if there was any real inkling, not made up stories, that there was a real threat, then he would get it and if he stayed in royal premises, he would get it."
