In a significant development for the British Royal Family, the new year appears to have brought a major breakthrough for Prince Harry and his family. According to recent reports, the UK Government is anticipated to comply with the Duke of Sussex's long-standing request for the reinstatement of his armed security detail when he is in Britain, a reversal of its previous refusal.
A Victory After a Long Legal Battle
This potential shift follows a protracted campaign and a well-publicised legal battle fought by Prince Harry. The crucial turning point came in December last year, when the full risk assessment process was finally approved. This green light allows RAVEC (Royal and VIP Executive Committee)—the body comprising representatives from the Home Office, the Metropolitan Police, and the British Royal Household—to conduct an official risk assessment.
The findings from this internal investigation have been decisive. Reports indicate that the Committee concluded all conditions for providing Prince Harry with the highest level of taxpayer-funded protection have been met. A source close to Harry was quoted saying, “It’s now a formality. Sources at the Home Office have indicated that security is nailed on for Harry.” Barring any drastic changes, Harry is expected to receive the same level of armed protection he once had as a working royal.
The Stakes: A Family's Safety and Reunion
For Harry, this security is non-negotiable for his family's visits to the UK. He has consistently stated that without this level of support, he could not bring his wife, Meghan Markle, and their children—Prince Archie, 6, and Princess Lilibet, 4—back to England, citing safety concerns. The issue of security has been the primary obstacle preventing the Sussex children from visiting their British heritage and their grandfather, King Charles III.
This development sparks a poignant question about the younger Sussex child: Has Princess Lilibet ever actually been to the UK? The answer is yes, but only once. Her sole visit was in June 2022, when she was just a baby, for the late Queen Elizabeth II's Platinum Jubilee. That brief trip also marks the only confirmed time she has met her extended royal family in person. Her brother Archie, though born in England, has also spent very little time in the country since the family's move to California.
A New Chapter for Royal Grandchildren?
With the security hurdle potentially removed, the future looks markedly different. If the protection is officially reinstated, it opens the door for Archie and Lilibet to finally make meaningful trips to the UK. Royal watchers note that King Charles is keen to spend time with his grandchildren, and visits to family estates like Balmoral or Sandringham could become a reality.
Such visits would allow Lilibet to connect with her British roots beyond family history. However, a final decision rests with her parents, balancing privacy, safety, and family ties. While Prince Harry's stance on security is clear, it remains debated whether Meghan, who has built a life and career in California, is eager to re-enter the UK's royal media spotlight.
For now, the anticipated reinstatement of Prince Harry's security detail marks the most promising step in years toward healing family rifts and allowing the King's grandchildren to explore their heritage on British soil.
