In a recent interview, the Duke of Sussex shared his deep-seated worries about returning to the United Kingdom, particularly concerning the safety of his family.
This candid conversation took place during the July 25 debut of ITV’s program “Tabloids on Trial,” where he didn’t hold back in expressing his fears.
The Duke highlighted the ongoing dangers that loom over them, stating, “It’s still dangerous, and all it takes is one lone actor, one person who reads this stuff to act on what they have read.” His words resonate with a chilling reality; whether it’s a knife or acid, these threats weigh heavily on his mind.
Such fears are significant enough to deter both him and his wife from setting foot back in the nation.
Neel Basu, the former chief of counterterrorism for the Metropolitan Police, backed the Duke’s concerns, revealing that real threats were investigated while the Duchess was in the UK.
Basu noted that these threats had led to prosecutions, underscoring the seriousness of the situation.
The protection of his family has been a driving force behind Prince Harry’s decision to step back from royal duties and leave the UK.
After the couple announced their intention to step down as senior royals, their automatic right to police protection was revoked by RAVEC, the Executive Committee for the Protection of Royalty and Public Figures.
Despite the Duke’s willingness to finance their security, this request was denied.
Earlier this year, High Court Judge Peter Lane upheld the decision to reduce his security, a ruling that the Duke plans to challenge.
A spokesperson for the Duke clarified that he isn’t seeking special treatment but rather a fair application of RAVEC’s policies.
He wants to ensure that he receives the same level of protection as others, in line with the committee’s own regulations.
This plea highlights a desire for equity in how royal protections are administered.
When questioned about the necessity of police protection for his children, Prince Archie, aged 5, and Princess Lilibet, aged 3, the Duke expressed his wish for them to feel at home in their native country.
He emphasized, “In the United Kingdom, I have a domicile,” reflecting his connection to the land despite their current residence in the United States.
The Duke believes that his children should always feel a sense of belonging in the UK, an important aspect of their heritage.
However, he recognizes that this cannot be achieved without adequate safety measures in place when they visit.
“I can’t put my wife in danger like that, and given my experiences in life, I’m reluctant to unnecessarily put myself in harm’s way too,” he stated, showcasing his protective instincts as a husband and father.
Since relocating to California in 2020, the Duke has made several trips back to the UK, especially following his father’s coronation in May 2023.