The government has sent its congratulations to Prince Charles and Camilla Parker Bowles following the announcement that they are to get married.

A statement from Clarence House revealed that the two are to wed on April 8 in a ceremony at Windsor Castle.

Prince Charles was said to be "absolutely delighted". "It will be a very special day for us and our families," he said.

"Mrs Parker Bowles will use the title HRH the Duchess of Cornwall after marriage," added a royal spokesman.

Following the announcement, Tony Blair said he was "delighted" for both parties.

"It's very happy news and when Cabinet heard it this morning they sent congratulations and good wishes on behalf of the whole government," the prime minister said.

"We all wish them every happiness for their future together."

A Downing Street spokesman said the prime minister has known of the news "for some time" but had "only told a very, very few number of people, less than the fingers of one hand".

He added that these were either Number 10 staff or "ministers who constitutionally had to be consulted".

Liberal Democrat leader Charles Kennedy also welcomed the news.

"We congratulate Prince Charles and Camilla Parker Bowles and we wish them all future happiness," he said.

Welsh secretary Peter Hain, said the news would receive a "very warm welcome throughout Wales".

"As secretary of state I have got to know the prince well and I am personally delighted for both himself and Mrs Parker Bowles and I wish them every happiness for the future," Hain added.

The Archbishop of Canterbury, Dr Rowan Williams, endorsed the marriage.

"These arrangements have my strong support and are consistent with Church of England guidelines concerning remarriage which the Prince of Wales fully accepts as a committed Anglican and as prospective Supreme Governor of the Church of England," he said.