Concerns grow as the Duke prepares for a possible return with his wife after four years
A close friend of Prince Harry has spoken out, calling on the UK Government to reconsider security arrangements for the Duke and his wife, Meghan, ahead of a potential visit.
Harry is reportedly planning to return to Britain with Meghan for the first time in four years. As those plans take shape, one of his long-time friends has added pressure on officials to restore the couple’s police protection during their stay.
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex lost their automatic, taxpayer-funded security when they stepped back from royal duties and relocated to the United States in 2020. Since then, the issue has remained a point of contention.
Last year, Harry’s legal challenge against the Home Office, aimed at reinstating that protection, was unsuccessful. However, he did secure approval for a full risk assessment after appealing to Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood in December. A government committee is expected to determine the appropriate level of security, although a planned January meeting has yet to produce a clear outcome.
Alex Rayner, a close friend who joined Harry on a 2012 charity expedition to the North Pole, has been vocal about the situation. He pointed to Harry’s military background, including two tours in Afghanistan during his decade-long Army service, as a key reason why he may face heightened risks.
Rayner also appeared to question the fairness of the current arrangements, noting that other members of the Royal Family continue to receive protection. He suggested it seems unreasonable for Harry to be asked to fund his own security, given his service record.
Harry served in Afghanistan both as a forward air controller and later as an Apache helicopter pilot. His military experience remains a central part of his public identity.
Looking ahead, the Duke is also focused on the Invictus Games, the international sporting event he founded for wounded and injured service personnel. With the next edition set to take place in Birmingham, he is expected to visit the UK later this year to promote the event, and hopes Meghan will join him.
Rayner stressed the importance of supporting Harry, especially in light of his military contributions and his ongoing work with veterans, raising the question of whether the current approach to his security fully reflects that.
