Speculation grows as Prince Harry’s security dispute raises doubts about UK visit for the festive season.
The Duke of Sussex is currently engaged in a legal battle with the UK Government over his taxpayer-funded security. Jennie Bond, a former BBC Royal correspondent, has expressed her doubts about the Sussexes returning to the UK for Christmas while this case is ongoing.
According to reports, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex have been invited to spend Christmas at Althorp House with Charles, Earl Spencer. This would mark the Duchess's first significant visit to the UK since attending the late Queen’s funeral in 2022 and the couple's first UK Christmas since 2018.
However, Bond noted that should they accept the invitation, it would contradict Prince Harry’s previous claims about the UK being unsafe for his family without official security. "It would be very odd indeed if the family suddenly arrived in the UK, given Harry’s stance on security," Bond told OK! magazine.
The Duke was recently seen at the memorial service for Lord Robert Fellowes in Norfolk, where both he and Prince William were present. However, the brothers reportedly kept their distance, sitting separately during the service at St Mary’s Church. Witnesses confirmed that they attended discreetly and did not interact.
As Prince Harry prepares to celebrate his 40th birthday, reports suggest he plans to mark the occasion with family and close friends before taking time to relax with a smaller group of companions.
