Sarah Vine’s Stance Ignites New Debate on Meghan Markle’s UK Security

As the British public and royal watchers alike await the outcome of Prince Harry’s high-stakes legal battle over police protection in the UK, speculation is swirling about whether the Duke of Sussex—and perhaps even his entire family—may soon set foot on British soil once more. The verdict on Prince Harry’s plea for automatic armed police protection is expected soon, a decision that could pave the way for his return with children, Archie and Lilibet, igniting a renewed debate, notably fueled by veteran royal commentator Sarah Vine, about Meghan Markle’s security arrangements and whether British taxpayers should fund them. This ongoing legal and public discussion is crucial for future royal visits and the evolving dynamics within the Royal Family.

Prince Harry’s Security Battle Nears Verdict

Prince Harry’s legal challenge stems from the decision to remove his automatic police protection after he and Meghan stepped back from royal duties and relocated to California in 2020. The Duke of Sussex has consistently argued that his family’s safety, particularly that of his young children, depends on robust, official protection during any visits to the UK. According to reports from the Mirror and Daily Mail, Harry is reportedly confident about securing a favorable verdict, which would allow him to bring Archie, now six, and Lilibet, four, back to the UK.

For the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, the issue of security has been a persistent sticking point since their move to the United States. Their argument centers on the unique risks associated with their royal status, despite their non-working royal roles. A win in court would reinstate a level of security that Harry deems essential for his family’s protection, potentially easing their travel concerns and facilitating more frequent visits to the UK.

Sarah Vine’s Intervention: A Question of Taxpayer Funds

The prospect of Meghan Markle’s return, and the question of her security, has become a particularly thorny issue, amplified by commentary from veteran royal commentator Sarah Vine. In a widely discussed piece for the Daily Mail, Vine articulated a specific stance on who should bear the cost of the Duchess of Sussex’s protection. Vine argued, ‘There is only one instance in which it would be acceptable for the taxpayer to foot the bill for Meghan’s presence on this island, and that is if she accompanies Lilibet and Archie as they visit their British relatives.’

Vine’s opinion underscores a significant segment of public sentiment, which questions the financial obligations of the British taxpayer towards individuals who have chosen to step back from official royal duties. She continued her argument by stating, ‘Otherwise, she can do what every other celebrity does: pay for her own security. After all, she can well afford it. It transpired recently, according to calculations based on figures from her own website, that she’s sold almost £27 million worth of her ‘signature fruit spread’ in America.’ This direct challenge to Meghan’s entitlement to taxpayer-funded security, juxtaposed with her reported entrepreneurial success, has intensified the public debate surrounding the Sussexes’ visits.

The Children’s Return and Royal Family Dynamics

Beyond the financial and security concerns, the debate also touches deeply on family ties. Archie and Lilibet have remained in the United States since 2020, never having met their British cousins. This absence has not gone unnoticed, particularly given Archie’s position as sixth in line to the throne. Sarah Vine highlighted this sentiment, stating, ‘They deserve to see their family. Archie, believe it or not, is sixth in the line to the throne. The fact that he and Lilibet have not yet met their cousins is plain wrong.’

A favorable court decision for Prince Harry could finally facilitate this long-awaited family reunion, offering an opportunity for the children to connect with their royal relatives. However, the potential return of Meghan Markle, even under secure conditions, is not without controversy. Some royal insiders and commentators have suggested that her presence risks “setting off something exhausting,” as reported by the Daily Mail. There are concerns that her return could reignite tensions within the royal family, with Prince William and Princess Kate reportedly bracing themselves for renewed public and media scrutiny. Meghan herself has been described as having “the power to upset the royals,” and her every move is watched closely by the press and public alike.

Beyond Security: Financials and Future Engagement

The financial aspect of the Sussexes’ security remains a key point of contention. With Meghan’s entrepreneurial success, particularly the reported £27 million from her ‘signature fruit spread’ in the US, some argue that the couple has the means to fund their own protection, akin to other high-profile celebrities. Yet, the unique risks associated with their royal status, coupled with the children’s place in the line of succession, complicate this issue, distinguishing them from typical celebrities.

One significant event on the horizon is the Invictus Games, scheduled to take place in Birmingham in the summer of 2026. Founded by Prince Harry, this international sporting event for wounded, injured, and sick servicemen and women is almost certain to see Harry’s attendance. Meghan has previously joined her husband at Invictus Games ceremonies in Canada and Germany, and her participation in the upcoming Birmingham event would mark a significant public return. The question of whether she will be by his side—and, crucially, under the protection of British police—is still very much uncertain, adding another layer to the ongoing security debate.

As the Duke and Duchess await the court’s decision, the public conversation continues to evolve. The outcome will have far-reaching implications—not just for the Sussexes’ travel plans, but for the broader relationship between the royal family and the British state. If Harry wins back his police protection, a family reunion in the UK may finally be on the cards, with Archie and Lilibet meeting their cousins for the first time. Whether Meghan will join them, and under what conditions, remains to be seen, keeping all eyes on the courtroom and the palace gates.

The ongoing debate, as articulated by commentators like Sarah Vine, underscores the persistent tension between the desire for private lives and the inherent public nature and expectations associated with royal status, particularly concerning financial accountability and security provisions for non-working royals.