Prince Harry pushes for security policy change under new UK government

Prince Harry continues to battle over security arrangements for himself and his family when they are in the UK. 

The Duke of Sussex contested the Home Office's February 2020 decision to revise his protection level after he stepped down from royal duties. In February, High Court judge Sir Peter Lane ruled that the decision was lawful, justified, and not irrational.

Despite this, the recent General Election on July 4 saw the Conservatives lose to Labour, potentially giving Harry a chance to influence the new government led by Sir Keir Starmer. 

A government spokesperson told Newsweek, "The U.K. government's protective security system is rigorous and proportionate. It is our long-standing policy not to provide detailed information on those arrangements, as doing so could compromise their integrity and affect individuals' security. It would not be appropriate to comment on ongoing legal proceedings."

The Home Office has defended its processes, indicating no immediate shift in stance. Last December, Harry expressed his concerns about his family's safety in the UK, stating, "The UK is my home. The UK is central to the heritage of my children and a place I want them to feel at home as much as where they live at the moment in the US. That cannot happen if it's not possible to keep them safe when they are on UK soil."

In April, Harry's initial appeal was rejected, and he was ordered to pay 90 percent of the Home Office's legal costs. His efforts to ensure security for his family in the UK continue as he seeks a resolution under the new government.