Prince Harry's planned stay at Buckingham Palace this week has been cancelled after a misunderstanding over the timing of his acceptance, the palace has confirmed. The Duke of Sussex had initially turned down an offer of accommodation, then later asked to stay, but officials said it was too late to arrange staffing.
The decision was made in consultation with King Charles, who spoke privately to his son. A palace source said common courtesy requires minimum notice for staff, but that accommodation would be available in future. Harry's team expressed disappointment, particularly as the withdrawal was partly linked to an impending high court judgment against the publisher of the Daily Mail.
Harry arrived in London on Monday and is due to carry out engagements including promoting the Invictus Games in Birmingham. The trip has been overshadowed by a security dispute with the government. The Duchess of Sussex and their children will not join him in the capital but may meet him later in the West Midlands.
The high court case, brought by Harry and others against Associated Newspapers Limited, involves allegations of unlawful information-gathering. The company denies the claims. It is unclear whether Harry will see his father during the visit, as the king has a busy schedule. No decision has been made on whether his family will accompany him to visit the grave of Diana, Princess of Wales.
