Burnham classifies Sussexes' security funding as private matter
The Prime Minister declined to confirm state support for the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, citing the ongoing review of the Prince’s protection status.
Prime Minister Andy Burnham has stated that the security funding for Prince Harry and Meghan Markle upon their return to the United Kingdom is a "private matter." Speaking during a visit to West Yorkshire, the Prime Minister declined to confirm whether the government would establish or fund security arrangements for the couple, who are expected to relocate to a non-royal residence outside London later in August.
Burnham noted that the decision is a matter for Harry and Meghan personally, adding that the government wishes them well in their move from the United States. The Prime Minister’s comments come as the couple prepares to end their six-year residence in California, having moved to the US in 2020 after stepping down as working royals.
The public announcement of the return came as a surprise, with King Charles informed of the decision only three days prior. It is understood that the Prince and Princess of Wales were also notified of the move. The couple had a reunion with King Charles at Highgrove in Gloucestershire last month, where the King is said to welcome the opportunity to see his family in a personal capacity.
Prince Harry’s security status remains under review. He has been involved in a protracted legal battle with the Home Office regarding protection arrangements after his level of security changed when he ceased royal duties. As of the end of June, Harry was awaiting a decision from the risk management board, part of the executive committee for the protection of royalty and public figures. No further details regarding specific UK security arrangements have been made public.
The couple, along with their children Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet, are expected to complete their relocation later this month, with the children already enrolled at a British school. They will retain their homes in Montecito, California, and Portugal. Meghan Markle intends to continue managing her lifestyle brand, As Ever, from their new UK base.
The return has raised questions about the couple's future relationship with the wider royal family. It is understood that Harry and Meghan will not be offered a "half-in half-out" option for royal roles, a stance previously rejected by Queen Elizabeth II. Former BBC royal correspondent Peter Hunt suggested the move could lead to the prospect of "two rival courts" in the long term, while noting that Prince William remains estranged from his brother following criticism aimed at the senior royals.
