New sign Prince Harry is considering returning to Great Britain despite the risks

Should officials conclude that the Duke needs routine armed officers again, the state would fund this protection when he is on British soil.

The prospect comes as King Charles, 77, continues cancer treatment and has not seen his grandchildren since June 2022, when Harry and Markle visited to celebrate Queen Elizabeth II’s platinum jubilee.

Sources familiar with his legal battle say the current case-by-case reviews could cost more than reinstating regular officers.

One said: “Every time he comes, a whole ad hoc system has to be built around him. It’s more expensive and much less efficient than simply re-establishing a small team.”

The threat investigation for Harry – the first since the beginning of 2020 – is already in full swing.

Government officials, senior police officials and Harry’s representatives have provided detailed information about the risks he faces, especially given his military service in Afghanistan, where he was previously considered one of the highest-risk public figures in the country.

A UK Government spokesperson said: “The UK Government’s protective security system is rigorous and proportionate.

“It has been our long-standing policy not to provide detailed information about these arrangements as this could compromise their integrity and affect the safety of individuals.”