Prince Harry’s UK Security Arrangements Face Fresh Home Office Review After Family’s Return
Prince Harry’s security arrangements are reportedly being reassessed following his return to Britain with Meghan Markle and their two children for an extended stay.
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex arrived with Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet on a private flight from California shortly before midday on Wednesday, landing at Birmingham Airport.
Their stay could reportedly last anywhere from several months to several years. However, the family arrived without armed police protection and relied on a privately funded security team for their journey from the airport.
Home Office reportedly reassessing Harry’s case
The Sussexes were said to have travelled overnight aboard a Bombardier Global Express XRS, a luxury long-range business jet.
The Home Office is now “actively assessing” Harry’s circumstances again, according to reports. The development follows claims that the duke sought answers from Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood about the protection available to his family in Britain.
A government source said officials had been asked to conduct another assessment because the family had chosen to reside in the UK.
“Any recommendations will be made in due course,” the source added.
No decision has been made on whether Harry and Meghan should become eligible for taxpayer-funded protection.
Previous security challenge ended in defeat
Harry previously lost a legal challenge against the Home Office over the security arrangements provided to him and his family in Britain.
His protection changed after he and Meghan stepped away from their roles as working members of the Royal Family. Harry has repeatedly maintained that the resulting arrangements made it unsafe to bring his wife and children to the UK.
Last month, a long-awaited assessment of the duke’s security needs was conducted at the direction of the Royal and VIP Executive Committee, known as Ravec.
However, sources have claimed that the Sussex family’s return has altered the circumstances surrounding the case, prompting officials to examine it again.
Family currently using private protection
The family was reportedly not provided with a publicly funded police convoy after arriving at Birmingham Airport. Instead, their private security team accompanied them to their new home.
The latest review does not guarantee that Harry’s protection will change. Any recommendation must first be considered by the relevant government authorities, and no final determination has been announced.
