Influencer Editorial Team
Prince Harry returned to London’s Royal Courts of Justice on Wednesday for the final day of his legal battle over the UK government’s decision to downgrade his police protection.
The hearing, largely held behind closed doors due to sensitive material concerning security protocols and threat levels, marks the second day of the prince’s appeal against the changes made after he stepped back from royal duties in 2020.
Harry, 40, arrived at court shortly before 10:10 a.m. and was seen quietly conversing with his legal team and making notes during the session. A decision is expected to be delivered in writing at a later date.
The core of Harry’s argument is that the Executive Committee for the Protection of Royalty and Public Figures (Ravec) acted unfairly when it decided he would no longer automatically receive the same level of state-funded protection as senior working royals. His legal team claimed the committee failed to consult with a specialist risk body and instead applied a “bespoke” security plan.
Barrister Shaheed Fatima KC said the prince rejects the idea that a custom plan is superior, arguing instead that it reflects “unjustified and inferior treatment.” She also referenced past threats, including a documented call from al Qaeda urging Harry’s assassination.
In written arguments, his lawyers said the Duke and Duchess of Sussex felt “forced to step back” from their royal roles due to concerns for their safety, although they intended to continue supporting the late Queen in a private capacity.
The case papers also mention a 2023 incident in New York City where Harry and Meghan were involved in a high-speed paparazzi chase, which an investigation later described as reckless and dangerously persistent behaviour by the photographers involved.
Representing the Home Office, Sir James Eadie KC defended the approach, explaining that experts from both Ravec and the Risk Management Board deemed Harry’s situation “unique” and deserving of a tailored solution. He added that such a decision didn’t entirely exclude the possibility of future police protection in certain circumstances.
Despite emotional testimony and security concerns, government lawyers maintain that Prince Harry’s personal feelings about the downgrade are “legally irrelevant” in the eyes of the court.
