Prince Harry seeks Home Office decision on security funding ahead of UK return
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Prince Harry has asked Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood for clarification on whether his family will receive state-funded security protection if they relocate permanently to Britain, a move that could cost taxpayers over £5 million annually.
Prince Harry has approached Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood to obtain a definitive decision on state-funded security for his family as they plan a permanent return to the United Kingdom, according to reports. The couple, who announced their move back to the UK after six years in the United States, have secured private accommodation outside London and selected schools for their children, Archie, seven, and Lilibet, five.
The Royal and VIP Executive Committee (RAVEC) assessed Harry’s security needs in July, following a review by its risk management board, and concluded that he was not eligible for publicly funded protection. At the time, the committee was unaware of the family’s intention to relocate permanently. If the Home Office approves funding, the cost of round-the-clock armed police protection could exceed £5 million per year.
Senior members of the royal family reportedly held a meeting at Balmoral Castle after the announcement, and the king was briefed on the plan shortly before it became public. The duke and duchess will remain private individuals and non-working members of the royal family, with no change to their official status.
Harry previously lost a Court of Appeal challenge against the Home Office over security arrangements after stepping back from royal duties in 2020. In a past interview, he expressed uncertainty about returning to the UK while his security situation remained unresolved.