Prince Harry says it’s ‘great to be back on British soil’ as he opens up on UK return

The Duke of Sussex has declared it is "great" to return to Britain, stating that Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet are currently "happy in school".

Speaking to Canadian broadcaster CTV following a skydive outside Toronto — performed to fulfill a promise to a 102-year-old Second World War veteran and raise awareness for military charities — Harry shared an update following the family's return on August 26.

Discussing Archie, seven, and Lilibet, five, the duke remarked: "The kids are happy in school and it gives me a chance to really focus on Invictus in Birmingham. The games are in July next year."

Reflecting further on his arrival, Harry added: "It’s been great. It’s been great to be back on British soil. It’s great to be back on terra firma, actually!"

When questioned by CTV regarding the motivation behind their move back from California, where they had established a life after stepping down as working royals in 2020 for personal and financial reasons, Harry offered "lots of reasons" without expanding, explaining he did not wish to overshadow his fundraising work for Canadian veterans.

The family's return to the UK after six years in the US has been accompanied by public disagreement with Buckingham Palace over their official status, alongside logistical adjustments to their children's education.

Uncertainty remains surrounding the rationale for their unexpected move. Speculation ranges from a desire for the children to forge a closer bond with their grandfather the King, to Meghan seeking a return to acting or a move to elevate their profile.

While the King was said to be pleased to spend time with the family prior to their arrival, he reportedly maintained that a half-in, half-out arrangement was off the table, firmly ruling out a return to official royal duties.

Tensions surfaced within two weeks of their arrival. A letter, authorised by the King and issued by the Lord Chamberlain to government and military officials, reinforced that the couple are "private citizens" and outlined conduct guidelines.

The duke and duchess were reportedly "surprised" by the memo. The couple, who are awaiting a decision on whether they will receive taxpayer-funded security, reportedly prefer to be designated as "public figures" instead.

Schooling has presented an additional challenge, with Archie and Lilibet transferred to an undisclosed new institution after merely two days in class. The decision followed reports that heavy traffic and an extended commute placed their security detail under strain.