The Royal Security Conundrum: Queen Elizabeth’s Letter in Harry and Meghan’s Security Dispute

Queen Elizabeth conveyed her wish in a letter from 2020 for ongoing security for Prince Harry and Meghan Markle upon their move to the U.S., a recent disclosure revealed.

The letter, dispatched by the Queen’s private secretary Sir Edward Young to the U.K. cabinet secretary Sir Mark Sedwill after the Sandringham Summit in January 2020, emphasized the importance of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex’s safety. It highlighted Harry’s public profile owing to his royal lineage and military service and Meghan’s independent profile, noting the history of threats against them.

This letter surfaced as evidence during a three-day hearing in London concerning Harry’s lawsuit against the Mail on Sunday for libel. The Duke contends that a 2022 article on his security arrangements attacked his integrity.

The hearing probed into financial support the couple received post their exit from royal duties, with the Mail on Sunday disputing Prince Harry’s offer to cover security costs after the summit.

Though Prince Harry aimed to dismiss the Mail on Sunday’s defense, the judge ruled to proceed with the lawsuit. Additionally, Harry is contesting the withdrawal of his police security in the U.K. after stepping back from his royal role in 2020, expressing his regret over leaving the U.K. and underscoring the need for his family’s safety, especially for his children’s comfort.

The U.K.Home Office stated security decisions for Prince Harry and his family would be case-specific, considering their non-working royal status and overseas residence.