Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s request for police protection in the UK is said to be deserving based on a condition set forth by a royal expert today.
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex are awaiting a decision on their appeal for automatic armed police security in the country to ensure their safety. Sources suggest that Harry is optimistic about the outcome, which could have significant implications for the royal landscape.
Despite facing criticism, an expert believes that a ruling in favor of the couple would be beneficial for their children, Archie and Lilibet, who have not seen their grandfather, King Charles, since June 2022. The expert, Sarah Vine, emphasized that taxpayer-funded protection for Meghan would be justified only if she accompanies her children when visiting their British relatives.
Archie, sixth in line to the throne, and Lilibet have not yet met their cousins. This situation has been criticized by Vine as unjust in her recent column for the Daily Mail.
There are concerns that a favorable ruling for Harry and Meghan could allow them to have a hybrid royal status, splitting their time between the UK and the US. Vine argued that regardless of Meghan’s controversies, she is the mother of the young royals and they deserve to have family connections.
The Duke of Sussex has highlighted security concerns as a major obstacle to returning to the UK with his family. Upgraded security measures could alleviate this concern and make it more feasible for them to visit.
While armed police protection would be funded by British taxpayers, it is typically reserved for “working royals” engaged in public duties. Despite not holding official royal roles, Harry and Meghan could receive continuous security coverage while in the UK.