Queen Elizabeth has acted to avert any future constitutional crisis over the succession to the throne by approving the marriage of the Prince of Wales to his long-time partner, Mrs Camilla Parker Bowles.
But as a number of snap polls confirmed continuing public opposition to the marriage, it was made clear yesterday that the future Duchess of Cornwall would not become "Queen Camilla". When Prince Charles accedes to the throne, his future wife will be known as the Princess Consort.
Although Buckingham Palace confirms that the queen (78) continues in good health, it is understood Prince Charles has been under pressure from advisers to come to a decision about the status of his relationship with the divorcee he had declared a "non-negotiable" part of his life.
Clarence House announced that decision yesterday under pressure of media leaks, confirming that the couple will be married in a civil ceremony followed by a service of prayer and dedication in St George's Chapel at Windsor Castle on April 8th.
Queen Elizabeth said she and the Duke of Edinburgh were "very happy that the Prince of Wales and Mrs Parker Bowles are to marry".
Princes William and Harry - Prince Charles's sons by his marriage to the late Diana, Princess of Wales, said they too were "very happy" for the couple and wished them "all the luck in the future".
Queen Elizabeth formally consulted the Prime Minister, Mr Tony Blair, before giving her permission for the marriage, as required by law. During the negotiations and consultations preceding yesterday's announcement, it is understood Mr Blair indicated his government would support and facilitate whatever arrangements proved acceptable to the queen and Prince Charles. He said yesterday he was "delighted" with the news and sent his best wishes to the happy couple, as did the Conservative leader, Mr Michael Howard, and the Liberal Democrat leader, Mr Charles Kennedy.
The Taoiseach, Mr Ahern, said he wished the royal couple all the best in their life together. Asked if he would be invited to the royal wedding, Mr Ahern laughed and said "you never know".
A spokesman for the Taoiseach said that, according to protocol, it was not the practice for the Taoiseach to send a congratulatory note on such an occasion.
The Archbishop of Canterbury, Dr Rowan Williams, who will preside at a blessing for the couple, said he was pleased Prince Charles and Mrs Parker Bowles had decided to take "this important step" and hoped the marriage would be "a source of comfort and strength".