Duke of York in plea for MoD to 'buy British'

The Duke of York has criticised the Ministry of Defence for not ordering British-made armoured vehicles for troops

The Duke is reported to have voiced his anger that the MoD had decided not to bring in the Ranger vehicles. His comments were said to have been made during a tour of the Dorset factory where the vehicles are made.

The Duke, who is an ambassador for UK Trade and Industry, is believed to have accused defence chiefs of stalling during the procurement process.

The MoD said previously it had no immediate plans to order the vehicles, but had asked for tests to determine the Ranger's resistance to roadside bombs.

Buckingham Palace refused to comment on the Duke's criticisms, saying he was speaking during a "private conversation."

But a source close to the Duke said: "Knowing the Duke and how he feels about the Service's commitments, he will clearly be frustrated with the procurement process, and sometimes that has been reflected in his comments."