Uncertainty surrounds the financial responsibility for Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's security arrangements should they require protection during their stays in Britain. Reports suggest that the cost to UK taxpayers could reach up to £5 million annually if they are funded publicly.
The couple is reportedly planning to relocate to an undisclosed location within the UK outside of London. However, the method of financing their security – whether through private means or public funds – remains unclear.
This situation could potentially lead to a disagreement involving Buckingham Palace, the public, and the government, particularly concerning the provision of round-the-clock security for royals who are not engaged in official duties. Prince Harry has been involved in a lengthy legal dispute with the Home Office regarding security provisions for his family in the UK, following a change in his protection level after stepping down as a senior royal in 2020.
Prime Minister Andy Burnham has stated that the funding for Harry and Meghan's security in the UK is a "private matter" and declined to comment further.
A recent poll conducted by the Daily Mail asked the question: "Should UK taxpayers fund Harry and Meghan's security in Britain?" The results of a previous poll by the same publication indicated that 92% of over 24,000 respondents were not pleased about Harry and Meghan's return to Britain, with 8% expressing pleasure.