THE British Army officer hailed for his inspirational speech to troops before the Iraq conflict is under investigation for alleged war crimes.

Colonel Tim Collins is reported to have been accused of “serious breaches” of the Geneva Convention. Investigators are believed to be studying claims that he punched, kicked and threatened Iraq prisoners of war.

Colonel Collins, 43, who has been promoted from command of the 1 Royal Irish Regiment, denies the claims.

Reports in today’s Sun suggest that the Army’s Special Investigations Branch is investigating claims that he assaulted captured Iraqi soldiers in an attempt to gather intelligence. It is also believed to be looking into allegations that he pistol-whipped a civic leader, fired at the ground near civilians and shot the tyres of vehicles which posed no risk to coalition forces.

The Ministry of Defence said last night: “We can confirm that an investigation is being conducted into allegations that have been made against an officer who served in Iraq. We cannot comment further because of the risk of compromising the investigation.”

Colonel Collins, then a Lieutenant Colonel, inspired the 600-strong Royal Irish Regiment when he made a Shakespearean-style speech to troops on the eve of battle.

Wearing sunglasses and chomping on cigar, he told his troops to “go get them”. A copy of the speech was later pinned to a wall of the Oval Office in the White House and the Prince of Wales wrote to congratulate the colonel on his “extraordinary stirring, civilised and humane words”.

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