Prince Harry may be 'unable to return' to Britain for uncle's funeral amid security row
Prince Harry may be unable to return to the UK for his uncle's funeral amid 'strict Home Office rules' about UK security
ITV
Prince Harry may be unable to return to the UK for his uncle's funeral amid "strict Home Office rules" about UK security.
Sources claim that the Duke of Sussex could miss the funeral of his uncle Robert Fellowes - who was married to Princess Diana’s sister.
Fellowes - who was also Queen Elizabeth’s secretary from 1990 to 1999 - died aged 82 earlier this month.
The Duke was reportedly considering a trip to the UK for the "huge gathering of the Spencer clan", but the Home Office's decision to downscale Harry's security detail while in his home country could make things difficult.
Prince Harry may be unable to return to the UK for his uncle's funeral amid 'strict Home Office rules' about UK securityITVAn official stipulation, which is believed to be in place, means the Duke must notify authorities 28 days ahead of visiting the country.
As a result, he can typically only return home for significant celebrations or well-scheduled public engagements.
A source claims that these constraints could mean he misses Fellowes' funeral.
"Harry didn't have plans to visit the UK this summer so when something last-minute arises like a funeral, it becomes a very difficult situation to navigate," they told OK!
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"Harry would like to spend more time in Britain, but it's a logistical nightmare for his team due to ongoing security issues."
However, Harry has previously overruled the conditions, when he attended his grandmother's funeral in September 2022 and returned to the UK following King Charles's cancer announcement.
The insider added: "Harry has made visits to the UK in the past, but the security issue has remained a constant concern."
When asked about any flexibility given for emergency trips like attending a family funeral, an official spokesperson said: "The UK Government's protective security system is rigorous and proportionate.
Sources claim that the Duke of Sussex could miss the funeral of his uncle Robert Fellowes - who was married to Princess Diana’s sister
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"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."
Another source suggested that consistent concerns over safety have affected Prince Harry's ability to maintain relationships.
They said: "There have been times when Harry couldn't attend events that he was invited to.
"It's a shame because there are family members who love him dearly and he still has several close friends in the UK."
GB News has approached the Duke and Duchess of Sussex for comment.