Prince Harry’s security arrangements while in the United Kingdom are currently under government review, following a formal request he submitted shortly after Shabana Mahmood’s appointment as home secretary. The Duke of Sussex has personally reached out to Mahmood. He is particularly keen to receive a full risk assessment from the Executive Committee for the Protection of Royalty and Public Figures (Ravec), which works under the auspices of the Home Office.
The review has begun primarily because Ravec ordered its risk management board to reconsider Prince Harry’s threat level. This decision is taken at a time when worries expressed by Prince Harry about the consequences of a recent court of appeal decision are still fresh. He said the court’s ruling left it “increasingly difficult” for him to bring his wife, the Duchess of Sussex, safely to the UK. He panned the idea of transporting their kids, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet, with them.
Prince Harry faced a big loss back in May. He has lost a court of appeal in relation to the dismissal of his high court challenge to Ravec’s decision on his security. While in the UK, he made the case for taxpayer-funded protection. He argues he should be afforded the same level of security as other members of the royal family. According to the government, its protective security system is no joke. They think it’s fair because it’s tailored—proportionate to the unique context and factors around each person.
Following their exit from royal life as senior royals, Prince Harry and Meghan moved from Canada to California. This step has only complicated their relationship with the UK even more. Prince Harry’s threat level is being re-evaluated as we speak. We’re hopeful for a favorable decision, which we expect to arrive next month.
From the Duke’s legal battles and fears regarding security have further catalyzed discourse assuring royal protection in today’s society. In response to these criticisms, a UK government spokesperson made clear that the UK government remains committed to keeping people safe while managing public money responsibly. Even as this situation develops, it remains a focal point of tremendous interest and import, nationally and internationally.