13 JANUARY 2005

Prince Harry has apologised for his decision to wear a Nazi uniform to a fancy dress party in Wiltshire last Saturday. Clarence House released the statement late Wednesday evening prior to the embarrassing pictures hitting newsstands early Thursday morning.

"I am very sorry if I caused any offence or embarrassment to anyone. It was a poor choice of costume and I apologise," read the Prince's statement.

While the latest gaffe from the Queen's 20-year-old grandson has incurred the wrath of Jewish human rights organisations around the world, the Board of Deputies of British Jews accepted the Royal apology. But others have insisted the young Prince should apologise in person.

The incident comes just two weeks before the British Royal family is set to take part in commemorative ceremonies marking the 60th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz concentration camp in Poland.