Public Service and Administration Minister Richard Baloyi has shifted the blame for the purchase of pricey ministerial vehicles onto department officials.

On Wednesday Baloyi conceded government was rattled by the perception created by the purchase of vehicles worth millions in the current economic climate.

However, the minister said no one broke any rules.

He added department accounting officers are responsible for procurement, not ministers.

Baloyi said the purchases are dealt with by the department because they are government assets.

Meanwhile, minister Trevor Manuel admitted he wrong to buy a BMW worth R1.2-million.