Theresa May has sent a congratulatory message to Prince Harry and Meghan Markle on hearing the news of their engagement.
The Prime Minister offered her congratulations on behalf of the country, saying: “I would like to offer my very warmest congratulations to HRH Prince Harry and Meghan Markle upon their engagement.
“This is a time of huge celebration for two people in love and, on behalf of myself, the Government and the country, I wish them great happiness for the future.”
It is widely thought that the engagement announcement was supposed to be made last week, however, Clarence House postponed the announcement until today after getting ‘spooked’.
It is believed that Downing Street may have been too eager to release a statement congratulating the royals, and to try and avoid leaks, pushed the announcement back.
Following the news, members of both families have released statements expressing their congratulations.
The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge said: “We are very excited for Harry and Meghan. It has been wonderful getting to know Meghan and to see how happy she and Harry are together.”
Before taking Meghan’s hand in marriage, Prince Harry sought and received the blessing of Meghan’s parents.
Meghan’s parents, Thomas Markle and Doria Ragland, have released a statement saying: “We’re incredibly happy for Meghan and Harry.
“Our daughter has always been a kind and loving person.
“To see her union with Prince Harry, who shares the same qualities, is a source of great joy for us as parents.
“We wish them a lifetime of happiness and are very excited for their future together.”
A Buckingham Palace spokesperson added that The Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh are “delighted for the couple” and “wish them every happiness.”
Royal Central will keep you up to date with the engagement announcement throughout the day.
