Prince Harry has faced criticism for what some have called his “unreasonable expectations” regarding security measures ahead of his upcoming visit to the United Kingdom. The Duke of Sussex will return next week for a High Court hearing against Newsgroup Newspapers.
Despite a legal battle last year over taxpayer-funded police protection, which he lost, Harry will receive limited security during his visit. Former BBC correspondent Jennie Bond weighed became involved in the matter, suggesting that Harry’s decision to reject an offer to stay at Buckingham Palace was a “mistake”.
“I think he’ll be a little upset that he doesn’t get full police protection, but as far as he’s concerned this is a step in the right direction.” Bond told The Mirror. “I think it is a public relations mistake to refuse accommodation at Buckingham Palace, where security is guaranteed and already paid for.”
He added: “It doesn’t seem reasonable to expect police protection around a hotel just because you decide to turn down a perfectly good offer of safe accommodation.” It should be noted that Harry will travel alone, since his wife Meghan Markle and their children, Archie and Lilibet, will not accompany him.
Bond speculated that Harry’s reluctance to bring his family is due to ongoing concerns about safety. “I still don’t think he would feel comfortable bringing Meghan and the children here unless there was a guarantee of full police protection. And I suspect Meghan has no particular desire to return here anyway,” he said.
The royal expert also addressed strained relations within the royal family, stating that meetings with family members are not expected during Harry’s visit.
“I think we’ve stopped expecting any meeting between Harry and his family when he visits the UK,” Bond said. “I imagine his days will be consumed by the court case, but if there is a possibility of meeting his father, I suppose it is possible.” However, he added that there is “absolutely no sign of reconciliation” between Harry and Prince William.
Harry’s visit to the UK comes against a backdrop of ongoing tensions within the royal family, with no clear signs of resolution in sight. Their decisions regarding security and accommodation have only fueled greater scrutiny and debate.