Prince Harry has arrived in the UK for a series of engagements without his wife Meghan and their two children, amid a continuing dispute over security arrangements. A planned stay at Buckingham Palace, which Harry's team stated had been offered by King Charles, will not proceed due to insufficient notice for necessary preparations.
Sources indicated that while an offer of accommodation was made, the Royal Household requires a minimum period to staff and prepare a royal residence. Correspondence on Saturday morning formally declined the King's offer, and a subsequent request to accept it for a limited period could not be accommodated due to the unavailability of hospitality and staffing. This latest development follows tense negotiations over Harry's security during his UK visits.
The Duke of Sussex is in the UK for Invictus Games-related events. His wife, Meghan, and their children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet, are not with him for this part of the visit. It is understood that Meghan and the children may still join Harry later in the week for other engagements, potentially including a private visit to see King Charles. Archie and Lilibet have not seen their grandfather since 2022.
Harry has long argued that security concerns prevent him from bringing his family to Britain. He has stated a desire for his children to visit the UK and learn about their heritage, including a potential visit to Althorp, the family home of his late mother, Princess Diana. However, he has emphasized that he will not put his family in danger, citing "real and credible threats."
The Sussexes stepped down as working members of the Royal Family in March 2020. Harry is expected to attend charity events for organizations like WellChild and Scotty's Little Soldiers during his visit. The ruling in a legal case brought by Harry against Associated Newspapers is also due this week.