With the Home Office now appearing to reconsider its stance in Prince Harry’s legal dispute over UK security, fresh speculation has emerged about whether the Duke of Sussex could take on limited royal engagements during future visits to Britain with his children, Archie and Lilibet.
Last year, Harry lost his legal challenge regarding police protection for himself and his family, prompting him to state that it was “impossible” to safely bring Meghan Markle and their children to the UK. However, the situation may now be shifting, as the Home Office has commissioned a full security threat assessment for the Sussex family—the first since 2020. Sources suggest Harry is feeling optimistic that automatic police protection could be restored. A royal commentator has noted that, should this happen, Harry would likely be keen to bring his children to the UK to spend time with their grandparents, King Charles and Queen Camilla, who have seen Archie and Lilibet only on rare occasions.
Former BBC royal correspondent Jennie Bond, quoted by the Mirror, believes the public may see more visits from Harry and his children, though she is less certain about Meghan’s involvement. While the security review could remove one major barrier, she suggests other challenges may still remain.
Bond explained that Harry has repeatedly identified security concerns as the main obstacle to repairing relations with his family, and the key reason his children have not visited the UK to connect with their heritage and their grandfather. If that issue is resolved, she believes it would be logical for Harry to bring Archie and Lilibet over. She added that many people would welcome seeing King Charles reunited with the grandchildren he barely knows, but questioned whether the public would respond positively to Meghan returning to the UK. According to Bond, Meghan appears settled in California and may have little incentive to face potential hostility in Britain, meaning future visits could involve Harry and the children alone.
Should Harry succeed in regaining full security protection, some have speculated that he might assist the reduced number of working royals during his visits. However, Bond expressed doubts about this possibility. She noted that the royal family had firmly decided against allowing anyone to operate on a “part-time” basis, describing the policy as strict but final. Allowing Harry to resume duties, even temporarily, she argued, could be seen as unfair to Prince William, who has remained steadfast in his loyalty to the Crown and his responsibilities.
Harry has continued efforts to mend his relationship with King Charles, whom he last met in person in September for a brief 55-minute discussion. He has also spoken publicly about his desire for reconciliation and for his father to eventually visit him in the United States.
Further reports suggest Harry may be taking additional steps toward healing the rift by offering King Charles a prominent role at the Invictus Games in Birmingham in 2027. This could potentially place father and son together on stage during the opening ceremony at the NEC, signalling a notable change in their strained relationship.
At present, Harry is required to notify the Metropolitan Police at least a month in advance of any trip to the UK, as his security arrangements are still assessed individually for each visit. His legal team has previously warned that this system could put his safety at risk. However, with the Home Office review expected to conclude this month, the current arrangements may soon be revised.
