David Cameron led the congratulations to the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge on the birth their new daughter.

"I'm absolutely delighted for them," the Prime Minister declared on his Twitter feed.

Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg said that he and his wife Miriam wished them "all the best as their family grows".

"This is great news and an exciting time not only for them, but also Prince George," he said.

Scotland's First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said she was "delighted" at the news and offered her "warmest congratulations" to the royal couple.

Labour leader Ed Miliband tweeted: "Congratulations to the Duke and Duchess on the birth of their daughter. Wishing them lots of joy and happiness - and hopefully some sleep!"

Meanwhile, Mr Clegg revealed he was invited into a voter's house to watch the announcement on TV.

The Lib Dem leader tweeted: "On the doorstep in Sheffield. Thanks to the kind constituents who invited me in to see the great royal baby news being announced on their TV".

Ukip leader Nigel Farage said the birth of the royal baby was an "exciting and joyous event for millions of patriotic British people".

"I strongly urge all Ukip candidates to take at least an hour out of campaigning in order to toast the new arrival. I shall certainly be setting an example in that regard. After all, some things are worth interrupting politics for," he said.

Mr Farage said he was happy the baby's weight was announced in imperial measurements.

He said: "Imperial measurements, proper measurements - eight pounds three ounces.

"Not some horrid kilogramme measurement, I'm very, very pleased. Perhaps that tells us where the royal family really stand."

During a visit to Hastings, Mr Miliband said: "I would like to congratulate the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge on the fantastic news.

"I know the whole country will be wishing them incredibly well.

"I know as a father who went through anxious moments at the birth of my two kids that it is an anxious time, but now will be a joyous time for them both."

The Archbishop of Canterbury, the Most Revd Justin Welby, said: "It's wonderful news that the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge have a healthy new baby girl.

"Like many here and abroad, I'm delighted for the royal couple on this special day. May God bless them and both of their children with love, health and joy."

A host of celebrities have joined the world in congratulating the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge on the birth of their baby princess.

Singer and former X Factor judge Cheryl Fernandez-Versini tweeted: "Congratulations William and Kate. So excited to see our new little princess!!"

TV host Jonathan Ross tweeted: "Royal baby yay! Makes me happy. Republicans need not respond."

Singer and TV star Peter Andre wrote: "Congratulations to the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge on their baby daughter. Great great news."

Olympic gold medallist and swimmer Rebecca Adlington wrote: "Awwww its a girl!!!!! How exciting!! Congratulations Will and Kate!"

Bishop of Durham the Right Rev Paul Butler said: "Anybody who has been a parent or grandparent will know something of the joy and anxiety that the birth of a new baby brings. On behalf of the congregations of the Diocese of Durham, I send our warmest congratulations to the Duke and Duchess on the birth of their daughter."