UK Orders Fresh Review of Prince Harry’s Security Status After Formal Request
Independent committee to reassess threat levels and protection needs ahead of the Duke of Sussex’s 2026 visit
The UK government has initiated a new review of Prince Harry’s security arrangements after the Duke of Sussex formally asked the Home Secretary to reconsider his protections during visits to Britain.
It marks the first full reassessment of his status since 2020 and follows his unsuccessful legal challenge earlier this year seeking the automatic armed police protection he previously received as a working member of the royal family.
The Royal and VIP Executive Committee has tasked its internal Risk Management Board with evaluating current intelligence, police risk analyses and materials submitted by Prince Harry’s own security advisers.
Its findings will determine whether taxpayer-funded protection should be reinstated.
Ministers will not play a direct role in the process, reflecting standard protocol for royal and VIP security decisions.
A conclusion is expected within weeks, timed ahead of Prince Harry’s planned return to the UK in February 2026 for a court appearance.
Supporters say that a positive outcome could also pave the way for the return of his children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet, who have not visited the country since 2022 due to security concerns.
Government representatives have declined to discuss specific arrangements but stress that all decisions are guided by a rigorous and proportionate framework.
The review comes amid heightened awareness of threats against the prince, including cases involving extremist plots referenced in prior legal proceedings.
The government’s decision to revisit his protection status may ease a long-running impasse and offer a clearer path forward as the Duke prepares for his next visit to the United Kingdom.
It marks the first full reassessment of his status since 2020 and follows his unsuccessful legal challenge earlier this year seeking the automatic armed police protection he previously received as a working member of the royal family.
The Royal and VIP Executive Committee has tasked its internal Risk Management Board with evaluating current intelligence, police risk analyses and materials submitted by Prince Harry’s own security advisers.
Its findings will determine whether taxpayer-funded protection should be reinstated.
Ministers will not play a direct role in the process, reflecting standard protocol for royal and VIP security decisions.
A conclusion is expected within weeks, timed ahead of Prince Harry’s planned return to the UK in February 2026 for a court appearance.
Supporters say that a positive outcome could also pave the way for the return of his children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet, who have not visited the country since 2022 due to security concerns.
Government representatives have declined to discuss specific arrangements but stress that all decisions are guided by a rigorous and proportionate framework.
The review comes amid heightened awareness of threats against the prince, including cases involving extremist plots referenced in prior legal proceedings.
The government’s decision to revisit his protection status may ease a long-running impasse and offer a clearer path forward as the Duke prepares for his next visit to the United Kingdom.
