The return of Meghan Markle and Prince Harry to the United Kingdom has set in motion a series of significant developments, particularly concerning their security arrangements. After stepping back from royal duties in 2020, the couple has now been granted their first government-backed security review, a process that could have far-reaching implications.
This review, commissioned by the Royal and VIP Executive Committee (RAVEC), will consider various aspects of the couple’s lives, including their schedules, family routines, and public movements. The assessment marks a notable shift for Meghan Markle, who has not undergone such an evaluation since losing her police protection following the couple’s departure from royal life.
The RAVEC Review Process
The RAVEC review process is comprehensive and meticulous. The committee has requested detailed schedules from the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, including daily routines involving their children, Archie and Lilibet. This information will help officials assess potential risks associated with their movements, such as school runs and other regular activities.
Prince Harry has already undergone a Risk Management Board analysis in July, although the conclusions of this assessment are yet to be revealed. The couple has been granted interim security provisions during the review process, ensuring their safety while the evaluations are underway.
King Charles’s Guidance on Royal Status
In a letter issued on September 7, King Charles clarified the Sussexes’ status as non-working royals. The letter stated that there was “no change” to their status and directed any questions about courtesies or public funds to Buckingham Palace. Operational security issues, however, were to be directed to the relevant police authorities.
Palace insiders have noted that the guidance repeated terms agreed upon in 2020. Meghan Markle’s new security review is separate from her royal status and focuses on current risk rather than restoring her former automatic protection.
The Cost and Complexity of Security Arrangements
The security arrangements for the Sussexes are not without their complexities and costs. Former royal protection chief Dai Davies has commented on the potential expenses involved, stating that the new protection measures could be “very expensive.” He also noted that the entire risk assessment would need to be reviewed, given the couple’s changed circumstances.
As the review process continues, the details of the Sussexes’ security arrangements remain a topic of significant interest. The outcome of these assessments will not only impact the couple’s safety but also shed light on the broader implications of their return to the UK.
