🔗 Share this article

The cat has observed half a dozen prime ministers come and go, greeted world leaders and princes at the famous black door of Downing Street, and is shortly set to become the longest continuous resident since historical figures.

Lasting Presence in UK Politics

While the landscape of British politics has changed dramatically over the last decade and a half, the feline has remained a reassuring steady presence. His lasting popularity - the type that many politicians would covet - is now featured in a new TV program exploring the nation's love for cats.

"Larry is definitely the character to meet at No 10," commented one Westminster source, adding that he "has the run of the house."

Modest Beginnings

The tabby, whose official designation is Chief Mouser of the Cabinet Office at 10 Downing Street, was taken in from an animal shelter to address a pest issue. His journey from stray feline in south London to official resident represents a true rags to riches story that surpasses many political biographies.

Political Life

When tensions ran high during the coalition government, former Prime Minister the ex-PM was eager to dispel any rumors of dislike between him and the nation's new beloved cat. "This rumor is I don't love the cat - I do," he announced during one government meeting.

Now a increasingly established presence, Larry appears fully accustomed to the attention. Often seen on live television waiting calmly by the front door, his relaxed demeanor in front of audiences has become somewhat problematic for the Number 10 gardener - Larry frequently goes to the front garden to do his business.

Formal Duties

His official profile details the elderly tabby as passing his days welcoming visitors, checking protection defenses, and testing historical pieces for sleeping quality. His day-to-day responsibilities include considering answers to the rodent presence in the house.

While the cat is the initial to hold this specific position, felines have been welcomed in the halls of power for at least a century. "Consistency is an essential part of Larry's appeal," explained one academic who has studied people-pet connections.

Official Presence

Larry has an sharp sense of diplomatic occasion. "As soon as moment something occurs on the street, especially an formal visit, like clockwork, he'll be out the front," remarked a Number 10 insider. "He loves the attention."

Ex- American President Barack Obama and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy are among the international figures he has charmed. However, not officials were equally enamored.

Personality and Likes

"Theresa May famously disliked him because she was a canine person," explained one camera person who has witnessed several MPs attempting, and failing, to stroke the cat.

When not walking the sidewalks, his regular sleeping spots include the office equipment and in-trays, but his favorite spots are on the ledges on both sides of the entrance.

Popular Adoration

Larry's appeal with the public remains undeniable. There are multiple online profiles devoted to the country's chief mouser, including one with more than eight hundred sixty-eight thousand followers. He also receives letters, toys, and treats from around the world and has lately been included in a book about political pets.

Complaints and Answer

As chief cat, he naturally gets his portion of complaints. One government commentator recently described Larry as "too fat and excessively idle to actually perform his duties," claiming him of being "welfare dependent."

In response, sources near to Larry have released a strong rebuke. They clarify that Larry is not at all publicly funded, with Number 10 staff willingly paying his costs.