British princesses run a red light

With photographers and police in tow, Eugenie steered a Union Jack-emblazoned model of the iconic car on a 500-metre journey to her country's nearby embassy, seemingly oblivious to road rules.

Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie drive a Mini in front of Brandenburg Gate, Germany. Princess Eugenie ignored a red signal and sped through during the drive. Pic/Getty Images

But Buckingham Palace insisted the blue-blooded driver was simply obeying orders. "They were following the instructions of the German police," said Hannah Howard, a spokeswoman for the royals.

Ignoring a red light can bring a fine of 200 euros ($252) and a month's driving ban in Germany. Eugenie was visiting Berlin with her 24-year-old sister Princess Beatrice - their first trip abroad representing Britain.

Tourists seemed bemused when British officials thrust Union Jack flags in their hands to make the welcome appear warmer for a waiting gaggle of photographers.