London, May 2 (IANS): The Duchess of Cambridge gave birth to a girl on Saturday, adding a new member to the British royal family.

The baby - who is fourth in line to the throne - was "safely delivered", the Kensington Palace announced in a statement.

The Duke of Cambridge was present during the birth of the baby, BBC reported.

Both Catherine and her daughter are "doing well", the statement added.

The duchess had earlier been admitted to the Lindo Wing at St.Mary's Hospital where Prince George was born in July 2013.

Catherine travelled from the palace with her husband Prince William.

The statement from Kensington Palace added: "The Queen, The Duke of Edinburgh, The Prince of Wales, The Duchess of Cornwall, Prince Harry and members of both families have been informed and are delighted with the news."

The latest royal joins the line of succession behind her grandfather Prince Charles, father Prince William and brother Prince George.

Political leaders tweeted their congratulations for the royal family.

"Congratulations to the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge on the birth of their baby girl. I'm absolutely delighted for them," Prime Minister David Cameron wrote on Twitter.

Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg said he and his wife Miriam wished "them all the best as their family grows", Xinhua news agency reported.

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!"