In a reported bid to mend ties with the royal family, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle express their desire to join the festivities at Sandringham for Christmas. However, one significant condition looms over their potential return: the assurance of adequate security.
According to a report from Express, despite recent efforts to reconcile with other family members, it’s alleged that King Charles is yet to extend an invitation for the couple to join the royal celebrations. Sources close to the Sussexes reveal that they are open to spending the holidays at the King’s Norfolk residence but emphasize the necessity of a formal invitation from either the King or Buckingham Palace.
A friend of the couple shared with the Times, “I can’t imagine the Sussexes would decline an invitation to spend time with His Majesty. As of yet, there have not been any invitations for the holidays.” The same sources stress the need for a secure environment, demanding a guarantee of protection for the entire family.
The security concern comes on the heels of Prince Harry’s ongoing legal battle with the Home Office regarding the removal of his police protection during UK visits, despite his willingness to cover the costs. A legal representative asserts that Harry deems his home in the UK too dangerous, making security a paramount issue for any potential visit.
Royal aides suggest the possibility of temporary accommodation for Prince Harry on the royal estate, complete with heightened protection for short visits. However, past attempts to secure royal estate accommodation for a charity event in September were met with refusal, exacerbating the complexities surrounding Harry’s security arrangements.
The Sussexes are also reportedly apprehensive about potential leaks of private information during a Christmas at Sandringham. Prince Harry, who has accused his family of leaking information to the press in the past, remains wary, despite denials from the palace. The couple is keen on preserving their privacy, adding another layer of consideration before committing to holiday festivities.
Notably, the King, who has only met his grandchildren, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet, a handful of times, has never spent Christmas with them. This apparent gap has stirred sadness on both sides, with hopes that a Christmas reunion could mark a positive turning point.
Recent developments, such as Prince Harry’s call to wish the King a happy 75th birthday, are seen as positive indicators. Sources close to the Sussexes describe the conversation as “warm,” suggesting a potential shift in the dynamics between Prince Harry and the King. The inclusion of a video where Archie and Lilibet sang Happy Birthday is seen as a significant gesture that might pave the way for an invitation to the Christmas festivities.
As the holiday season approaches, all eyes are on whether King Charles will extend the coveted invitation and whether the security concerns can be adequately addressed, marking a potential reconnection for the Sussexes with the royal family.
