Prince Harry and Meghan Markle may not travel to the United Kingdom next month as planned after their request for taxpayer-funded security was denied. The couple had intended to visit family, friends, and charitable organizations close to Prince Harry's interests.
A source close to the Duke of Sussex indicated that he is exploring all possible options to ensure the safety of his wife and their two children, Prince Archie, 7, and Princess Lilibet, 5, during their potential visit. "If he can find a way to do that, he will," the source stated.
The planned trip included an opportunity for the children to see their grandfather, King Charles III, who is undergoing cancer treatment. Prince Harry, 41, is reportedly distressed by the decision, concerned that his children could be subjected to paparazzi attention upon arrival in England. "He won’t put his children through that," the source added.
Reports suggest that the Sussexes' office had initially communicated an intent to travel with "accepted royal accommodation." However, this decision was reportedly overturned within 24 hours. The couple, who reportedly pay an estimated $3 million annually for private security, were seeking 24/7 armed protection but were offered private security only at their provided royal residence.
Prince Harry lost his entitlement to taxpayer-funded security in 2020 when he and Markle stepped back from their royal duties. Since then, he has expressed feelings of not being safe when traveling to England with his family and has made several attempts to appeal the security decision.