The two-day hearing in London addresses Prince Harry's appeal against the withdrawal of security for him and Meghan Markle. The case questions the government’s policy after their royal departure and could have implications for royal security protocols.
Prince Harry Appeals for Security Rights in U.K. Court
Prince Harry Appeals for Security Rights in U.K. Court
A pivotal Court of Appeal hearing begins as Prince Harry challenges the U.K. government’s decision to revoke his family's publicly funded security.
On Tuesday, the Court of Appeal in London will commence a two-day hearing centered on Prince Harry’s challenge against the U.K. government's decision to withdraw publicly funded security for his family during visits to the country. Following the couple’s announcement in 2020 that they would step back from their royal duties and relocate abroad, a government committee determined they would no longer be entitled to police protection typically afforded to royal family members.
After previously losing an initial ruling in February last year, Harry received court approval to appeal on specific grounds, with judges suggesting that there is a “real prospect of success” for his case. This appeal will be heard before three judges, who will consider arguments from Harry’s legal team asserting that the withdrawal violated established security policies. Due to the sensitive nature of security evidence and risk assessments, parts of the hearings will be closed to the public.
The core of the appeal is a decision made on February 28, 2020, which ceased security protections for Harry and Meghan following their exit from official royal roles and subsequent relocation from Canada to California. As this legal battle unfolds, it raises broader questions about security arrangements for departed royals and public safety protocols in the context of their previous roles.
