Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are set to make a significant move back to the UK from the US this month, raising questions about their security arrangements and the public’s response to their return. Amid ongoing concerns about funding for their safety, UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham has emphasised that the couple’s security is a matter for them alone.
A New Chapter for the Sussexes
After spending over six years in North America, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex have decided to settle in a non-royal residence outside London. Their children, Prince Archie, aged seven, and Princess Lilibet, five, are already prepared for British schooling, which begins in September. King Charles III is reportedly supportive of the couple’s move and looks forward to reconnecting with his family.
However, Harry and Meghan’s return is not without its complications. Their status as private individuals means they will not participate in royal duties, and the government has made it clear that they will not receive taxpayer-funded protection. This decision follows a protracted dispute over security funding, which has been a contentious issue since the couple stepped back from royal duties in early 2020.
Security Funding: A Thorny Issue
The Sussexes’ previous security arrangements were withdrawn when they ceased to be working royals, leading to a legal battle that Harry lost last year. In his court testimony, he expressed concerns for his family’s safety while in the UK, stating, “I cannot put my wife in danger like that.” A senior judge ultimately ruled that Harry’s grievances did not warrant an appeal, leaving him frustrated over the lack of state-funded protection.
While Harry is awaiting a new risk assessment, the Home Office maintains that decisions about royal security are made by an independent committee. The government has reiterated that its protective measures are stringent and appropriate but remains tight-lipped about specific arrangements for the Sussexes.
Public Sentiment Divided
The reaction to Harry and Meghan’s return has been mixed. A recent YouGov poll revealed that 33% of respondents believe the couple should not come back to the UK, while 45% are undecided. Only 21% are in favour of their relocation. This sentiment reflects the ongoing public fascination and scrutiny surrounding the couple since they departed royal life.
Despite the mixed feelings, sources close to the couple suggest that their return is timely, particularly with Harry’s upcoming Invictus Games set for Birmingham next year. Meghan is also expected to maintain her lifestyle brand, As Ever, from the UK, although her plans for charity work remain uncertain.
Why it Matters
The Sussexes’ decision to return to the UK highlights the complexities of life outside the royal family while navigating personal and public expectations. Their move not only raises critical questions about security in a post-royal context but also serves as a litmus test for public sentiment towards modern monarchy. As they step back into the UK spotlight, the world will be watching how Harry and Meghan balance their private lives with the lingering scrutiny of their past.