Prince Harry to skip uncle Robert Fellowes’ funeral due to safety concerns
Prince Harry will not travel to the UK to attend his uncle Robert Fellowes’ funeral, The Post can confirm.
The Duke of Sussex, 39, had been considering a return to home soil for the memorial service and has reportedly been in contact with his aunt and his cousins, as well as his late mother Diana’s brother, Charles Spencer, following his uncle’s death.
Lord Fellowes, who was married to Diana’s sister, Lady Jane Fellowes, and served for a time as the late Queen Elizabeth II’s private secretary, died of undisclosed causes on July 29. He was 82.
Fellowes boasted a very close bond with Harry and his estranged brother Prince William. He attended both of their weddings in 2011 and 2018, respectively.
And despite Harry weighing up his options, the duke has ultimately decided against making the 5,459-mile trip.
After quitting royal life in 2020 and moving to the US, the Sussexes have been stripped of taxpayer-funded security in the UK, meaning they must now pay out of pocket for police protection.
Under current UK law, Harry must inform British officials about any travel plans to the UK at least 28 days in advance — no later.
The stipulation means Harry will not be coming to his beloved uncle’s funeral, since he has not submitted his travel notice at this time.
“Harry didn’t have plans to visit the UK this summer so when something last-minute arises like a funeral, it becomes a very difficult situation to navigate,” a source told OK! Magazine.
“Harry would like to spend more time in Britain, but it’s a logistical nightmare for his team due to ongoing security issues.”
“Harry has made visits to the UK in the past, but the security issue has remained a constant concern.”
Another source told the outlet that Harry’s lack of security has been a factor in the breakdown of his relationship with members of the Firm.
“There have been times when Harry couldn’t attend events that he was invited to,” the insider said.
“It’s a shame because there are family members who love him dearly and he still has several close friends in the UK.”
Instead, Harry and his wife, Meghan Markle, will be traveling to Colombia for an official visit.
The country’s Vice President Francia Márquez announced on Aug. 1 that the Sussexes will be visiting Bogotá, Cartagena and Cali.
The trip comes after the duo traveled to Nigeria for three days in May.
