The issue is hugely sensitive because the role is not hereditary and will not pass automatically to the Prince of Wales on the Queen's death.

The Commonwealth has set up a "high level group" to look at the way the international organisation is governed.

This group is meeting later, officially to review how the Commonwealth is run by its secretariat and governors.

It said the issue of the succession of the head of the Commonwealth was not part of the group's mandate, but described the day-long discussions as "open".

However, senior sources added that the gathering in London would also consider what happens when the Queen, who turns 92 in April, dies.

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