No, it's not April 1st.

Big Ben, the iconic London clock tower at the houses of Parliament, is to be officially renamed   ‘The Elizabeth Tower’ in honour of the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee.

The proposal was made earlier this year, and, at the time, was backed by British Prime Minister David Cameron, his deputy Nick Clegg and the opposition leader Ed Miliband. It is expected that the formal renaming will be announced later today.

The tribute mirrors a similar honor bestowed on Queen Victoria, who had the square tower at the other end of the Palace of Westminster, previously known as The King's Tower, renamed The Victoria Tower in her honour.

The name change is not without its critics - including the Royalist.

London bores will often tell you that the name 'Big Ben' actually applies to the great bell within the clock tower, however the name Big Ben is generally used by all and sundry to describe the tower - officially known as 'Clock Tower' - not a bell hidden within it.

Big Ben, the tower - rightly or wrongly though it be so called - is a unique symbol of Britain. 

It seems inevitable that after the elaborate opening service, the tower will still be known as Big Ben.

Ridiculous.