Security arrangements for a return to the UK by the Duke and Duchess of Sussex could cost taxpayers about £5m, according to estimates.
Such figures typically reflect the expense of police protection, advance planning and logistics associated with high-profile visits.
Harry and Meghan stepped back from their roles as working members of the Royal Family in 2020 and have since lived in California.
The question of their security while in the UK has been the subject of long-running debate, including legal proceedings brought by the duke over the level of protection provided.
“Protection decisions are based on risk, not popularity, and the details are deliberately kept out of public view.”
Decisions on protection for public figures are made by a specialist committee, and the government does not usually comment on individual arrangements.
Campaign groups focused on public spending have questioned whether such costs are justified, while others argue that security for prominent figures is a necessary obligation.
Estimates of security costs for public figures are rarely confirmed officially, and experts caution that the true figure depends on the length of any visit, the number of engagements and the threat assessment at the time. Such costs are usually met from existing policing budgets.
No firm dates for any visit have been publicly confirmed.
Royal commentators say any visit would be closely watched for signs of reconciliation within the family.
Further details of the cost are unlikely to be published, in line with longstanding policy on security matters. Officials have said only that arrangements are kept under regular review.
