A Royal Protection Officer has been arrested after ammunition was found in lockers in the grounds of Buckingham Palace.

Scotland Yard said the ammunition is believed to be from Metropolitan Police supplies and the officer is being questioned on suspicion of misconduct in public office and unlawful possession of ammunition.

He is being held in custody at a London police station and will be suspended from duty.

The investigation, being carried out by the Directorate of Professional Standards, began several weeks ago when officers from Royalty Protection reported finding ammunition in their personal lockers or belongings.

The arrested officer is part of the unit responsible for protecting the Royal family, although he is not assigned to guard any individual members of the family.

Searches have taken place at his home and the police building in the grounds of the palace, which is where the ammunition was found.

The Royal Household has been made aware of the investigation and the Independent Police Complaints Commission has also been informed.

Last week, the Met Police announced the reorganisation of its Protection Command, which is also responsible for guarding politicians.

Assistant Commissioner Mark Rowley said a number of scandals were being investigated, including claims that police at Buckingham Palace had stolen confiscated weapons.