Prince Andrew rebukes US over Iraq war

Prince Andrew. Photograph: John Stillwell/PA

Bruised Anglo-America relations over Iraq were unexpectedly prodded by the Duke of York today when he criticised the Bush administration for failing to listen to Britain on post-invasion tactics.

In a rare and outspoken interview with the International Herald Tribune, Prince Andrew said the Iraq war had prompted a "healthy scepticism" towards America.

He said there was feeling in Britain of "why didn't anyone listen to what was said and the advice that was given".

Citing Britain's experience of colonialism, the prince said there were "occasions where people in the UK would wish that those in responsible positions in the US might listen and learn from our experiences".

Speaking ahead of a 10-day trade mission to the US, Prince Andrew, now a trade envoy, said: "If you are looking at colonialism, if you are looking at operations on an international scale, if you are looking at understanding each other's culture, understanding how to operate in a military insurgency campaign - we have been through them all."

The prince, who is fourth in line to the throne, added: ""We've won some, lost some, drawn some. The fact is there is quite a lot of experience over here which is valid and should be listened to."

Prince Andrew's criticism amplifies Britain's concerns about America's deBaathification policy following the invasion.

Geoff Hoon, the then defence secretary, more diplomatically said that Britain "lost the argument" with the Bush administration over rebuilding Iraq.

In his interview with IHT, the prince also spoke of his time flying helicopters during the Falklands war. He said the experience had left him with a "different view of life".