Prince Harry was escorted from a courtroom today by his security team following an unexpected outburst from a supporter during a legal hearing concerning his security arrangements in the UK. The Duke of Sussex found himself in the Court of Appeal on Wednesday, where he was challenging the dismissal of his claim against the Home Office related to decisions made by the Executive Committee for the Protection of Royalty and Public Figures (Ravec).
During the proceedings, which took place at the Royal Courts of Justice in central London, an abrupt pause allowed for the courtroom to be cleared. As Prince Harry exited, a member of the public expressed her support by shouting, "I support you Prince Harry." Witnesses noted that his bodyguards quickly moved to shield him from the woman as she continued, "If you’re members of the press, you’re the reason he’s no longer in England."
The hearing, which is taking place over two days, follows a ruling by retired High Court judge Sir Peter Lane last year. He determined that Ravec's decision, made in early 2020 after the Duke and Duchess of Sussex stepped down as senior working royals, was lawful. During the session, Harry was observed quietly conversing with members of his legal team and jotting down notes on light blue sticky paper.
The argument presented in this appeal was led by Shaheed Fatima KC, representing the duke. She asserted that Ravec's approach involved a "different and so-called bespoke process" for Harry. Fatima argued that the term "bespoke" does not imply improved treatment; rather, it suggests that Harry is being subjected to distinct, unjustified, and inferior security measures. She indicated to judges that the bespoke process includes Ravec's considerations of the reasons behind Harry’s attendance at specific events, which she stated are irrelevant to the core question of security.
As the case unfolds, it highlights the complexities surrounding the security arrangements for the Duke, who now resides in the United States, and the ongoing legal debate over his protection when visiting the UK.
Source: Noah Wire Services