The duke challenges decision on security detail after stepping back from royal duties

Prince Harry expressed his discontent, stating he was “forced to leave” his UK home as he contests the decision to reduce his publicly-funded security following his departure from royal duties in 2020. The Duke of Sussex is challenging the Royal and VIP Executive Committee’s (Ravec) choice to downgrade his security, claiming a lack of transparency and failure to apply the usual risk analysis.

In a statement presented in the High Court, Harry emphasized his reluctance to jeopardize the safety of his wife, Meghan Markle, and their children. He stated, “The UK is my home. The UK is central to the heritage of my children, and a place I want them to feel at home.”

While not physically present in court, Harry’s legal team argued that the security downgrade lacked proper consideration of the broader impact on the UK’s reputation in the event of an attack. Barrister Shaheed Fatima KC contended that Harry did not view stepping back from royal duties as a mere “choice” and accused Ravec of treating him differently from others.

The Home Office defended its decision, asserting that Harry’s change in circumstances warranted a modified security arrangement due to his non-working royal status and residence abroad. The court also heard that Harry’s team reported security concerns to the Met after he faced paparazzi interference at a 2021 WellChild event.

As the legal battle unfolds, Prince Harry seeks to address the complexities surrounding his security and challenges the perceived disparity in treatment by Ravec.