The Prince allegedly hit the officer at Buckingham Palace

Detectives are investigating an incident in which Prince Andrew allegedly struck a police officer while driving into Buckingham Palace.

The Duke of York reportedly struck a uniformed officer as the policeman tried to move two Japanese tourists out of the way of the Prince's 4x4 car.

The officer is said to have hurt his arm in the incident on 5 February and made a complaint to his superiors.

A Scotland Yard spokesman confirmed the accident was being investigated.

A police spokesman said: "A uniformed 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."

'Health and safety'

The officer has since returned to work at the palace.

A Buckingham Palace spokeswoman described it as a "health and safety matter" adding: "The Metropolitan Police are investigating.

"The Duke of York is currently in Mexico - he has been in Panama and Mexico for the past week in his role as UK trade commissioner."

Prince Andrew is known for his love of cars, having owned a Bentley Arnage and an Aston Martin convertible.

In 2002 he was caught speeding near Heathrow Airport.

Senior members of the Royal Family frequently drive themselves.