Image: from Politics UK X @PolitlcsUK
By Open Chronicle with agencies
In a place where political careers can rise and fall within months, one resident of 10 Downing Street has demonstrated extraordinary staying power.
His name is Larry, and after more than 15 years at the heart of British politics, the famous Chief Mouser has now outlasted seven prime ministers, becoming one of the most recognizable and enduring figures associated with the British government.
On February 15, Larry marked 15 years living at the prime minister’s official residence, a milestone few occupants of Britain’s most famous address could ever hope to match.
From Rescue Cat to National Icon
Larry arrived at Downing Street in 2011 after being adopted from Battersea Dogs & Cats Home.
He was originally brought in to help tackle a mouse problem around the historic government buildings.
Officially holding the title of Chief Mouser to the Cabinet Office, Larry was expected to keep the rodent population under control. While he has occasionally demonstrated his hunting abilities, observers have often joked that his commitment to catching mice can be somewhat selective.
Fortunately for Larry, his popularity has never depended entirely on his job performance.
A Witness to Political History
Since moving into Downing Street, Larry has witnessed an extraordinary period in British politics.
He first arrived during the premiership of David Cameron and has since seen a succession of leaders come and go.
Those prime ministers include Theresa May, Boris Johnson, Liz Truss, Rishi Sunak, Keir Starmer, and now his seventh prime ministerial occupant.
While political leaders have changed repeatedly, Larry has remained a constant presence behind the famous black door of Number 10.
Higher Approval Ratings Than Politicians?
Over the years, Larry has developed a devoted following among the British public.
His social media presence, occasional appearances in news broadcasts, and frequent encounters with journalists outside Downing Street have transformed him into an unlikely celebrity.
Several public opinion surveys have even suggested that Larry enjoys higher approval ratings than many of the prime ministers he has served alongside.
His reputation for calm indifference to political turmoil has only enhanced his appeal.
The Trump Limousine Incident
Among Larry’s most memorable moments was an encounter during Donald Trump’s state visit.
As security teams managed one of the most closely watched diplomatic visits in recent British history, Larry appeared entirely unimpressed.
The tuxedo cat casually stretched out and fell asleep beneath the presidential armored limousine, creating an image that quickly spread around the world.
The photograph became one of the defining unofficial moments of the visit and further cemented Larry’s status as a cultural icon.
No Sign of Retirement
After a decade and a half in Downing Street, Larry remains firmly established in his role.
While prime ministers continue to come and go, Britain’s most famous cat shows little interest in stepping aside.
Fifteen years, seven prime ministers, countless political crises, and historic events later, Larry continues to patrol the grounds of Downing Street, maintaining a unique position in British public life.
In a country known for political change, Larry may be one of the few constants left.