Andy Burnham refrained from commenting on the Duke and Duchess of Sussex’s security arrangements as they prepare to return to the UK, describing the matter of funding as “private.” The announcement of Harry and Meghan’s move back to Britain took many by surprise on Wednesday evening, with King Charles reportedly informed just three days before the news became public.
During a visit to West Yorkshire, reporters questioned the Prime Minister about whether the Government would provide and finance security for the couple. Burnham responded: “Well, this is a private matter. It’s a matter for Harry and for Meghan, and we wish them well in the moves that they’re making.”
The Sussexes, who relocated to the US over six years ago, are set to move back to the UK later this month to reside in a non-royal home outside London. Since stepping down as working royals in 2020, Harry has been engaged in a lengthy legal dispute with the Home Office concerning the security provisions for himself and his family while in the UK.
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As of late June, Harry awaited a review by the Risk Management Board, which forms part of the Executive Committee for the Protection of Royalty and Public Figures (Ravec). This process assesses his security needs, with decisions made by Ravec in consultation with the Home Office, Metropolitan Police, and Royal Household, ultimately advising an independent chairperson.
Commenting on the unexpected return, former royal correspondent Jennie Bond told Sky News that public criticism, particularly of Meghan, should be approached with caution. She suggested their decision may be motivated by the wellbeing of their children, noting: “Perhaps Meghan is taking one for the team here, because I’m not sure this is her life’s desire to live back in the UK.”
Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet have already been enrolled in British schools and are expected to begin their studies in early September.
Sources indicate that the King welcomes the chance to spend more private time with the family, yet the Sussexes’ official status will remain unchanged. They will not be offered a “half-in, half-out” role within the royal framework.
The announcement has also raised questions about the reaction of the Prince and Princess of Wales, with no comment forthcoming from Kensington Palace. Relations remain strained between William and Harry following accusations made by the Duke against William, Kate, the King, and Queen Camilla since the 2020 Megxit event.
Former BBC royal correspondent Peter Hunt told the Press Association that the unexpected return could provoke considerable anger from William, suggesting it might lead to the existence of two rival royal courts.
The Sussexes will maintain their residences in Montecito, California, and Portugal, while Meghan will continue to manage her lifestyle brand, As Ever, from their new UK base. Jennie Bond surmised that retaining these properties indicates the couple might be “testing the water” with their return.
She added: “The only word we’re getting from the Palace is that Harry and Meghan are not going to be working royals at all, and certainly not whilst they carry on with their commercial activity, or particularly Meghan’s, which I completely see she needs to do, and why shouldn’t she? She’s an independent, relatively successful woman.”
This latest development highlights ongoing complexities surrounding the Sussexes’ relationship with the royal family as they embark on this new chapter back in the United Kingdom.