In brief
The upcoming hearings may change the course of protection for the Duke and Duchess of Sussex.
On Tuesday, the Court of Appeal in England initiates a two-day hearing related to Prince Harry's legal challenge against the UK government's decision to revoke publicly funded security for him and his family. This legal dispute arises after Harry and Meghan Markle announced their decision to step back from royal duties in early 2020. Following their departure from official royal roles, a committee recommended that they no longer qualify for the police protection typically afforded to members of the royal family. Prince Harry is contesting this ruling, having already faced setbacks earlier in the case, including a loss in February of the previous year. Nevertheless, a judge permitted him to appeal, suggesting the possibility of a "real prospect of success," despite their reservations. During the hearings, a panel of three judges will delve into arguments laid out by Harry’s legal team, which asserts that the government’s decision to withdraw security violates established official policy. In light of the sensitive nature of the evidence surrounding security measures and risk assessments, portions of the proceedings will be held behind closed doors. This case stems from a significant decision made on February 28, 2020, indicating that Harry and Meghan would lose their publicly funded protection following their relocation from Canada to California after renouncing royal duties. The outcome of this legal case could have major implications for Prince Harry's family’s safety during visits to the UK.
