Additional Coverage:
- Prince Harry and Meghan Markle could face millions in annual security costs in latest blow (irishstar.com)
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle may be facing substantial financial challenges as they settle back into life in the UK.
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex recently returned to Great Britain for an extended stay, bringing along their two children, Prince Archie, 7, and Princess Lilibet, 5, who have just started attending school in the country.
Since stepping down as working royals in 2020 and moving to the United States, Harry and Meghan’s UK security detail was significantly reduced. They have since privately funded their own protection in the US. The couple also sparked controversy earlier this year after quickly withdrawing their children from school following just two days of attendance.
Now, the Royal and VIP Executive Committee (Ravec), an independent body overseen by the Home Office, must reassess the Sussexes’ security arrangements. Previous agreements were based on the assumption that the family would not be residing permanently in the UK. Ravec had initially ruled that Prince Harry’s security needs would be evaluated individually during his infrequent visits.
Last month, UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham described the couple’s security as a “private matter,” noting that decisions rest with Harry and Meghan themselves. The Home Office has reiterated that the UK’s protective security measures are both rigorous and proportionate but declined to release details to avoid compromising safety.
Security for the family remains a sensitive topic. Prince Harry lost a legal challenge last year over the level of protection provided to him and his family during UK visits.
Philip Farina, founder and Chief Security and Safety Advisor at Risky Business, weighed in on the challenges the Sussexes may face. He pointed out that without police support, the couple will need to privately fund all aspects of their security, including residential protection and personal bodyguards.
Farina also noted a key difference in security protocols: private guards in the UK are not permitted to carry firearms, unlike in the US. This limitation could be exploited by potential threats.
He emphasized that a comprehensive security setup-including physical upgrades to their home, possibly an armored vehicle, and round-the-clock protection-could cost the couple millions of dollars annually.
As Harry and Meghan navigate their new chapter back in the UK, the financial and logistical demands of ensuring their family’s safety are clearly significant.