Prince Harry’s legal fight has cost UK taxpayers £300k as he continues to moan about removal of his police protection

PRINCE Harry’s battle over arms guards on his visit to the UK has cost taxpayers nearly £300,000 – and is unlikely to be over before the coronation.

He launched a judicial review in the High Court after his armed security was removed as he gave up his royal duties.

3

3

3

He branded it “unfair”. He offered to pay for police protection but was told it was not “guns for hire”.

Last night a source said: “He claims he doesn’t want taxpayers footing the bill for his guards – but they are being forced to foot hundreds of thousands for his court case.”

Harry, 38, says his family is unsafe in the UK despite armed royal protection for official events and while they are at Frogmore Cottage in the grounds of Windsor Castle.

His case at the Home Office is believed to face the High Court in early April.

However, it is unknown if a sentence could be issued before his father’s coronation at Westminster Abbey four weeks later.

Harry and his wife Meghan, 41, have yet to confirm if they will attend the May 6 service.

Former Scotland Yard Commander John O’Connor said: “To expect protection from the State is arrogant and irrational.

“It’s just vanity anyway. He only wants protection because he believes his importance will be downgraded without him. In this case, the taxpayer should not have to pay a cent.”

It’s been rumbling for 18 months and a Freedom of Information filing shows the defense has cost £296,882.87 so far.

This includes £199,978.52 for legal expenses, £93,268 for general counsel and £660 for court fees.

The government said it was “inappropriate” to comment on the proceedings.