The Duke of Sussex was contesting the home office's security arrangements when he visits the UK. Unfortunately, his attempt to secure a judicial review ended in defeat, leaving Prince Harry potentially responsible for the full cost of the high court suit, estimated at £500,000.
However, a spokesperson for Meghan and Harry stated that they were not willing to cover the court costs, emphasizing that they did not want to waste anyone's time and money. Reports suggest that Harry reached out to King Charles, pleading for financial assistance. However, a source close to Buckingham Palace revealed that Charles would not be intervening, as he wishes to avoid any association with Harry's legal battles.
Prince Harry's taxpayer-funded protection was discontinued when he stepped back as a senior royal and relocated to North America with Meghan Markle in January 2020. The ongoing legal battle with the home office for the right to full-scale police protection has reportedly cost the British taxpayers over £300,000 so far.
This includes £199,000 for the government's legal department costs, £93,000 for general counsel, £660 for court fees, £2,958 for email disclosures, and £16.55 for a courier, as revealed through a Freedom of Information request.
Harry's legal team also plans to challenge the application for him to pay the government's costs in defending the recent case, which is estimated to be at least £8,000. While court costs are substantial, Harry's relentless pursuit suggests his disregard for taxpayers' money.
His behavior has been criticized, with concerns raised about his litigious approach and the financial burden it places on UK taxpayers. Some suggest that Harry should cut his losses and consider the potential consequences of alienating himself further.
The recent ruling by a British judge that Prince Harry cannot legally challenge the government's decision regarding police protection in the UK deals a blow to his argument that he should be entitled to high-level security as a working royal.
This setback comes shortly after Harry and Meghan were accused of exaggerating security concerns by claiming to have experienced a near-catastrophic chase with paparazzi in Manhattan. The ruling highlights the perception of Harry's self-centeredness and raises questions about his intentions and priorities.
Prince Harry's defeat in the security battle against the Home Office has left him facing a substantial legal bill. His attempts to secure a judicial review and private funding for his security arrangements have not been successful, raising concerns about the potential financial impact on both Harry and UK taxpayers.
The ruling signifies a setback for his argument, adding to the criticism he and Meghan Markle have faced in recent times regarding their security concerns and priorities.
