Duke of York 'in palace crash with police officer'

The Metropolitan Police are investigating an alleged car accident involving the Duke of York following claims the royal struck a police officer while driving into Buckingham Palace.

Andrew is reported to have hit the uniformed officer as he tried to move two Japanese tourists from the path of the Duke's 4x4. It is understood that the officer who suffered a minor arm injury during the accident with Andrew's car last Friday is now back at work.

The Sun reported the royal drove into the Palace's side entrance and did not stop or slow down after the accident.

The officer hurt his arm in the incident and made a complaint to his superiors, according to the newspaper.

A Scotland Yard spokesman confirmed the accident was being investigated and said: "A uniformed Metropolitan Police Service officer was involved in a collision with a vehicle whilst on duty on Constitution Hill and sustained minor injuries to his arm.

"The circumstances of the collision are now being examined."

Senior members of the Royal Family frequently drive themselves when travelling privately, with the Duke of Edinburgh famously taking to the wheel of a London black cab.

A Buckingham Palace spokeswoman said: "This is a health and safety matter."