The case could reshape public financing of royal protection amid concerns about the safety and risk assessments involved.
Prince Harry Faces Court Challenge Over UK Security Protections
Prince Harry Faces Court Challenge Over UK Security Protections
Legal proceedings commence Tuesday as Prince Harry contests the removal of taxpayer-funded security for his family during UK visits.
On Tuesday, London’s Court of Appeal is set to commence a two-day hearing pertaining to Prince Harry’s legal battle regarding the withdrawal of public security funding for him and his family while in the UK. The case comes in the wake of Harry and Meghan Markle's decision to relinquish their royal duties and relocate to Canada in 2020. Subsequently, an official committee ruled that they would no longer be entitled to the customary police protection provided to members of the royal family.
Harry's legal team is arguing that the committee's decision violated government protocols regarding security measures. Despite losing an initial ruling in February of the previous year, Harry received permission from a judge to appeal, who noted, albeit with some hesitancy, that the case showed potential for a successful outcome. Three judges in the Court of Appeal are scheduled to listen to arguments from Harry's lawyers, focusing on the controversial policy shift. Additionally, part of the hearings is expected to be held in private due to the sensitive nature surrounding evidence related to security assessments.
The dispute primarily revolves around a decision made on February 28, 2020, which stated that Harry and Meghan would no longer qualify for publicly funded security following their withdrawal from royal duties. The couple subsequently moved to California in March 2020, raising questions about the obligations and privileges tied to royal status and public funding. The outcome of this appeal could have broader implications on how security support is allocated to royals and their families in the future.
Harry's legal team is arguing that the committee's decision violated government protocols regarding security measures. Despite losing an initial ruling in February of the previous year, Harry received permission from a judge to appeal, who noted, albeit with some hesitancy, that the case showed potential for a successful outcome. Three judges in the Court of Appeal are scheduled to listen to arguments from Harry's lawyers, focusing on the controversial policy shift. Additionally, part of the hearings is expected to be held in private due to the sensitive nature surrounding evidence related to security assessments.
The dispute primarily revolves around a decision made on February 28, 2020, which stated that Harry and Meghan would no longer qualify for publicly funded security following their withdrawal from royal duties. The couple subsequently moved to California in March 2020, raising questions about the obligations and privileges tied to royal status and public funding. The outcome of this appeal could have broader implications on how security support is allocated to royals and their families in the future.
