Probe over claims royal police officers slept on duty

Police officers responsible for protecting the Royal Family at Windsor Castle are being investigated over allegations they fell asleep on duty and left their posts unattended.

The Metropolitan Police said its directorate of professional standards (DPS) has launched an "urgent investigation" into a number of officers on protective duties at the castle in Berkshire.

It said: "The alleged behaviour falls below the high standards expected of officers, particularly in frontline protective roles."

It said the DPS would asses whether those under investigation should be placed on restricted duties, with a decision expected "before the end of next week".

The force said the Independent Office for Police Conduct has been informed and concluded the matter would be investigated locally by the Met.