Bishop Richard Harries urges people to be understanding

The Bishop of Oxford, the Right Reverend Richard Harries, said the couple had a "deep friendship" which deserved more understanding in the light of all they had been through together.

Bishop of Oxford: "No rush to marry"

The Bishop of Oxford, who is chairman of the church's board of social responsibility, said many members of the public has a "fellow feeling" for the couple.

As to the question of marriage, he told the BBC it appeared there were no short or medium-term plans. He added it would be wrong to push any couple into a speedy decision.

The friendship between Prince Charles and Mrs Parker Bowles is a sensitive issue for the Church of England because the future king automatically becomes the church's supreme governor.

Prince Charles: Growing popularity

Their relationship has come under closer scrutiny after they both attended a wedding of mutual friends a few days ago, although they were careful not be photographed together.

Mrs Parker Bowles is also hosting the prince's 50th birthday party later this month. Last year the prince hosted Mrs Parker Bowles' own 50th celebrations.

"More secure about the future": Jenny Bond reports on Prince Charles nearing 50

In October, the couple made their first joint statement denying any involvement in a book written by Penny Junor about the late Princess of Wales and her marriage to the prince.

In spite of Charles' growing popularity, his close relationship with the divorcee has not won public approval.

"St James Palace is very much aware of hostility in parts of the country towards Mrs Parker Bowles," said BBC Court Correspondent Nicholas Witchell, who interviewed the bishop.