Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have reportedly paused their search for a new UK residence, awaiting the resolution of their security arrangements with the Home Office.
The Duke of Sussex has been granted permission to proceed with an appeal against a High Court decision from June, which rejected his challenge regarding the downgrading of his personal security while in the UK. "Harry really does want to spend more time in the UK but doesn't feel comfortable doing that until the security issues have been ironed out," a source told The Express. "He and Meghan planned on looking for a part-time home near Windsor this year and hoped that the appeals process would be heard before the end of July so that they could properly start their search." "However, the court process seems to be taking its time." The legal battle began in 2020 when Prince Harry challenged the Home Office's decision to alter his taxpayer-funded security after he and Meghan stepped down from their senior Royal roles.
Despite the High Court deeming the decision lawful in February and denying Harry's request to appeal in April, the Court of Appeal has agreed in June to hear his case following a direct plea from his legal team.
Prince Harry's request to expedite his appeal was turned down by a Court of Appeal judge, who refused to allow the Duke to "jump the queue," insisting on no special treatment. "The time it's taking is rather unfortunate," a source said. "There were plans in motion to spend more time in the UK this year but seeing as there is still a big question mark over security, they [the Sussexes] don't feel confident in bringing the children over with them." The legal wrangle with the Home Office over security arrangements is just one of several.
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