Harry and Meghan’s Legal Battle for Police Protection Raises Speculation of UK Return

Prince Harry has expressed his desire to return to the UK with his wife Meghan Markle and their children, as revealed in a letter from his lawyers.

The Duke is currently engaged in a legal dispute against the UK's Home Office, seeking police security for himself and his family during their stay in Britain.

Two years ago, Prince Harry stepped down from his royal duties and now resides in California alongside Meghan and their two children, Lilibet and Archie.

Consequently, his police protection was revoked as he is no longer a working member of the royal family.

In the letter, Harry's lawyers argue that it would be unsafe for him and his family to visit the UK without police protection.

This request has sparked speculation that the Duke and Duchess of Sussex may be planning a return to the UK for the Queen's Platinum Jubilee celebrations this spring.

Notably, Prince Harry has expressed his willingness to personally finance the security expenses instead of burdening British taxpayers.

In response, Prince Harry's legal team has sent a pre-action protocol letter to the Home Office, indicating their intention to seek a judicial review if police security is not provided by the UK government.

This legal dispute could potentially escalate into a costly battle in the High Court between government officials and the Duke of Sussex.

Remarkably, this marks the first instance in history where a member of the royal family has initiated legal proceedings against the British government.

According to Prince Harry's lawyers, he has faced security risks since birth due to his royal status.

Despite his changed role within the institution, his profile as a member of the royal family remains unchanged, as does the threat to him and his family.

While the Duke and Duchess of Sussex privately fund their own security team, this cannot replace the necessary police protection required during their time in the UK.

Without adequate security measures in place, Prince Harry and his family are unable to return to their home country.

Meanwhile, there are reports suggesting that Meghan Markle may choose not to accompany Prince Harry on his visit to the UK this summer.

A royal expert claims that if she decides not to join him, it would be seen as a snub towards the royal family and cast a shadow over the firm's summer celebrations.

Currently residing in her $14 million mansion in California, Meghan has refrained from participating in royal duties since last year.

Sources indicate that Prince Harry plans to travel alone to meet the Queen, Prince Charles, Prince William, and their nieces and nephews, possibly leaving behind their 18-month-old son Archie.

Nigel Cawthrone, a royal expert and author, suggests that Meghan's absence would strain the relationship between the Sussexes and the royal family.

Notably, recent reports also highlight Meghan's decision to remove her first names from Archie's birth certificate, replacing them with “Her Royal Highness the Duchess of Sussex” as a tribute to Princess Diana.

While it is emphasized that Meghan's potential decision not to accompany her husband is based on personal and practical reasons rather than a deliberate snub, it does provide some relief to royal officials who would face diplomatic challenges in accommodating her.

However, Mr. Cawthrone acknowledges that under the current circumstances, traveling for anyone is a daunting task.

For Prince Harry, the emotional necessity of returning to the UK to see his family outweighs that of Meghan.