The Duke and Duchess of Sussex are making headlines once again, but this time it’s not for their celebrity status or philanthropic efforts.
Instead, the couple is grappling with the complexities of returning to their roles as full-time working royals, a transition that has stripped away many of the privileges they once enjoyed, particularly in terms of security.
Upon their return, the couple discovered that the constant police protection they had previously relied upon was no longer guaranteed.
Now, the provision of security for Prince Harry is determined on a case-by-case basis, funded by taxpayer money.
This means that every time he steps back into the UK, there’s a chance he might not have the necessary protection, depending on the Royal and VIP Executive Committee (RAVEC) assessment.
Frustrated by this situation, the Duke expressed his dissatisfaction with the Home Office after they revoked his automatic security.
In response, he initiated legal proceedings to reinstate this crucial protection.
Earlier this year, the High Court ruled that RAVEC’s decision to offer bespoke security arrangements to the Duke was legally justified.
However, the saga is far from over, as he now has the option to appeal this decision in the Court of Appeal.
While the security issue is front and center, it’s not the only legal matter on the Duke’s plate.
He is also involved in a separate case concerning a letter penned by his late grandmother, Queen Elizabeth II.
This letter, written by her private secretary Sir Edward Young, conveyed her genuine concerns regarding the safety of the Sussex family following the 2020 Sandringham Summit—a pivotal meeting where senior royals discussed the future of Harry and Meghan.
The letter highlighted the Queen’s deep concern for the couple’s safety, emphasizing how crucial it was for them to remain protected.
Given Harry’s prominent royal status, his military background, and the Duchess’s own standing, the letter underscored the heightened risks the family faced, especially considering past threats from extremists.
Despite these heartfelt sentiments, Sir Edward’s correspondence made it clear that RAVEC would ultimately make independent decisions regarding the Sussexes’ security.
The late monarch had expressed her desire for their safety, yet she understood that the final call rested with the committee.
Recent reports from the Metro reveal that an excerpt from the Queen’s letter played a role in a ruling by Mr. Justice Nicklin during the Duke’s ongoing legal battle against the Home Office.
This particular case stems from a 2022 article published by the Mail on Sunday, which prompted Harry to sue Associated Newspapers Limited for libel.
As the Duke and Duchess navigate these turbulent waters, the stakes remain high.