The Duke of Sussex is concerned that his children may not meet King Charles during their UK visit, which has been unexpectedly cancelled. Prince Harry and Meghan planned their first family trip to Britain in four years for events linked to the Invictus Games in Birmingham this July.
Harry was looking forward to reuniting Prince Archie, seven, and Princess Lilibet, five, with their grandfather. However, the visit is now in doubt after the government denied Harry’s request for police protection at royal residences. A source close to Harry revealed that he is “distraught” and believes his children should not face the risk of being pursued by paparazzi as soon as they arrive in the UK.
The source mentioned that Harry is considering other options to ensure the family can visit safely, but is unsure if this can happen without appropriate security measures. The planned visit was particularly significant as it would have marked the first time Charles met his youngest grandchildren since 2022, during Queen Elizabeth II’s platinum jubilee.
Last year, Harry lost a legal case regarding police protection in the UK, despite stating that it was unsafe for him and his family to visit without it. He has undergone a full risk assessment and is awaiting a decision from the royal and VIP executive committee, known as Ravec. This committee, which includes representatives from various government departments and the royal household, is responsible for making these decisions.
The home secretary, Shabana Mahmood, does not influence Ravec determinations. A government spokesperson stated that the UK’s protective security system is thorough and aims to maintain the security of individuals. Harry previously met with King Charles last September, marking a potential turning point in their relationship after months of tension.
