Prince Harry’s personal relationships in the UK are reportedly strained due to the ongoing security issues with the Home Office. Despite his desire to see his British friends more often, the 28-day notice requirement for travel makes last-minute trips challenging. This constraint has primarily limited his visits to major events or planned public appearances.
The recent passing of Lord Robert Fellowes, Harry’s uncle, at the age of 82, on August 5, has highlighted this issue. Lord Fellowes was married to Princess Diana’s older sister, Jane Fellowes, and served as Queen Elizabeth’s private secretary from 1990 to 1999. A source has revealed to OK! Magazine that, due to security restrictions, it seems unlikely Harry will attend his uncle’s funeral next week.
The Duke of Sussex’s team must inform the Home Office about a month in advance to allow for appropriate security arrangements before any travel. “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. Harry would like to spend more time in Britain, but it’s a logistical nightmare for his team due to ongoing security issues,” the source said.
Prince Harry has previously broken tradition by attending his grandmother’s highly secure funeral in September 2022, and also returning to the UK after news of King Charles’s cancer diagnosis. An insider told the publication that ongoing safety concerns had strained Prince Harry’s relationships with his close ones. Despite previous trips to the UK, security concerns have consistently troubled him. “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,” the insider said.
When asked about the possibility of exceptions for urgent situations, such as a family funeral, a UK Government representative emphasized that their security protocols are thorough and balanced. The spokesperson noted that it’s standard practice not to disclose specifics about these measures, as revealing such details could undermine their effectiveness and put people at risk. They also declined to discuss matters related to ongoing legal cases.