Over 80,000 Canadians Refuse To Foot Prince Harry And Meghan Markle's Security Bill

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle might have stepped back from being senior royals but they still haven’t totally escaped from the spotlight. A controversy is brewing in Canada when the MP of Victoria, where the Sussexes are staying, said that taxpayers should not be forced to foot the couple’s security bill.

In fact, the opposition to spend money for Harry and Meghan’s security while in staying the country has materialized into a petition, according to Daily Mail. Started by the Canadian Taxpayers Federation, more than 80,000 Canadian have already signed the petition expressing their dislike for using tax money to fund Sussexes’ security arrangements.

Harry, Meghan, and their eight-month-old son Archie are staying on Vancouver Island after the couple announced their plans of stepping back from royal duties. The Sussexes chose Canada to start a new life as a young family away from the royal spotlight but it is yet unclear who will pay for their security once they officially exit the monarchy.

There were speculations that the UK and Canada might work out a “cost-sharing” deal. However, MP for Victoria Laurel Collins expressed her opposition to such an arrangement saying that the Sussexes should pay for their security details.

“Yes, I hope that they're planning on covering their security costs, Collins said. “When it comes to the money our government spends and taxpayer money it's important that we put this into context and think about our priorities.”

As far as Collins is concerned, taxpayer money should be spent on things that benefit Canadians. “That we're prioritising making life more affordable for people, that we're prioritising protecting our environment and that we're spending our tax dollars on the things that really matter to Canadians,” the MP said.

Canadian Taxpayers Federation director Aaron Wudrick said they welcome Harry and Meghan in Canada but insisted that taxpayer dollars shouldn’t be used for their security. “Canadians are pleased to welcome the Duke and Duchess to Canada, but have made it crystal clear that taxpayers should not be forced to support them while they are living here,” Wudrick explained.

The group is also urging the Canadian Prime Minister to heed the voice of the people. “Our view is that Prime Minister Trudeau needs to respect the wishes of Canadians and make clear that while the Duke and Duchess are welcome in Canada, they must pay their own way!” Wudrick added.