London, United Kingdom — The security and safety of Prince Harry came to the forefront during a court session on Wednesday, as his legal team pressed an appeal over the U.K. government’s decision to deny him full police protection when in the country. Represented by attorney Shaheed Fatima, the Duke of Sussex’s case underscored a contentious dialogue on the responsibilities of the state toward non-serving royals.
During the closing arguments at the Royal Courts of Justice, Fatima emphasized the grave risks faced by Harry, urging the court to consider the personal stakes involved. “There is a person behind me,” she said, “who faces genuine threats to his safety and life that demand serious attention.”
This legal battle stretches back to early last year when Harry challenged the government’s policy, following his relinquishment of royal duties in 2020. The Home Office had then ruled out publicly funded security for Harry, advocating instead for a tailored, “bespoke” security arrangement appropriate only as needed.
Yet, the appeal earlier challenged by Prince Harry in February 2024 found a High Court siding with the government, asserting that such bespoke security measures were neither unlawful nor arbitrary. This decision was aligned with the Home Office’s committee resolution that full-time state-funded protection was unwarranted for Harry and his family while in Great Britain.
Harry’s presence at the hearing was rare and underscored the significance he placed on this case, which not only impacts his personal security but also touches on broader questions regarding the entitlements and protections afforded to members of the royal family who step back from official duties.
His legal representatives argued that much of the decision-making regarding Harry and his wife Meghan Markle’s transition out of senior royal duties had lacked transparency. Allegedly, key decisions were not vetted through formal committees but were conducted through an exceptional process convened at Buckingham Palace.
In opposition, government attorney James Eadie described Harry’s appeal as overly focused on minute interpretations of the policy and procedural aspects, potentially overlooking the broader context of the security provisions.
This suit reflects the ongoing challenge faced by Prince Harry and Meghan Markle since their decision to step down as senior royals. The couple has since relocated to Montecito, California, where they reside with their two children.
Further complicating the timing of Harry’s legal engagement, this week’s court appearances coincided with a significant family milestone—King Charles III’s twentieth wedding anniversary with Queen Camilla. The couple were reported to have embarked on a state visit to Italy just as proceedings began, with no interaction between Charles and Harry prior to their respective departures.
The outcome of Prince Harry’s appeal awaits a formal written judgment, anticipated to emerge in the coming weeks.
Additionally, the relevance of the royal family’s circumstances continues to capture public attention, signaling ongoing debates about their roles and the complexities of their interactions with governmental structures.
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