Prince Harry has formally requested a new review of his UK security status. This move complicates his recently improved relationship with his father, King Charles III. The Duke of Sussex wrote directly to the Home Secretary to demand a fresh risk assessment.
According to The Times, the appeal comes after a brief period of reconciliation between father and son. Palace sources indicate this action has created new tensions within the royal family.
Legal Battles and Family Diplomacy
Harry lost his legal challenge for automatic police protection earlier this year. He had been fighting to regain the taxpayer-funded security he lost in 2020. Since then, his security on UK visits has been decided on a case-by-case basis.
This new request reportedly undoes progress made during a private meeting in September. That meeting was their first in nearly 19 months. A palace insider told The Sunday Times things are now “back to square one.”
A Father’s Limited Powers
Sources close to the King emphasize he cannot intervene in official security matters. Royal aides act only as liaisons on the security committee, known as RAVEC. They are forbidden from advocating for specific family members.
A source explained the King’s difficult position to The Times. They said repeated public pressure for the King to intervene is not helpful. It unnecessarily complicates their personal relationship.
This situation is especially delicate as King Charles continues his cancer treatment. Palace officials are reportedly unhappy the issue has become public again.
Security Concerns and a Stalker Incident
Harry’s team argues that a proper risk assessment has not been conducted since 2019. They claim the Duke is simply asking the committee to follow its own rules. The Daily Beast reported the assessment has been “kicked down the road for far too long.”
Harry’s concerns are reportedly driven by his family’s safety. He does not feel comfortable bringing Meghan and their children to the UK without robust protection. A recent incident where a stalker came within feet of him at a charity event reinforced these fears.
The ongoing security dispute highlights the fundamental conflict between Harry’s personal desires and his changed royal status. This latest plea for protection ensures the rift with King Charles remains a central theme in the monarchy’s ongoing story.
Info at your fingertips
Why does Prince Harry want police protection in the UK?
He believes his royal background makes him a target. He argues his family faces significant threats from extremists and intrusive media during visits.
Who decides on royal security arrangements?
The Royal and VIP Executive Committee (RAVEC) makes these decisions. This independent body is overseen by the Home Office.
Did Harry meet with King Charles recently?
Yes, they had a private meeting in September 2024. It was their first face-to-face conversation in nearly 19 months.
What was the result of Harry’s previous legal case?
He lost his High Court challenge in February 2024. The judge upheld the decision to change his security status after he stepped back from royal duties.
How does the palace view this new security request?
Insiders see it as damaging to the fragile reconciliation. A friend of the King said it “completely destroys” the progress they had made.
Trusted Sources
The Times, The Sunday Times, The Daily Beast
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