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Larry has witnessed half a dozen government leaders arrive and depart, greeted presidents and princes at the famous entrance of Downing Street, and is shortly set to become the longest continuous occupant since historical figures.

Lasting Figure in British Politics

While the scene of British politics has changed significantly over the past decade and a half, Larry has remained a reassuring steady presence. His lasting appeal - the kind that many leaders would covet - is now showcased in a new TV program exploring the nation's affection for cats.

"The cat is definitely the character to encounter at Downing Street," stated one political insider, adding that he "has the run of the residence."

Humble Beginnings

The tabby, whose official designation is Head Cat of the Government at the Prime Minister's residence, was adopted from an animal shelter to tackle a pest issue. His journey from homeless feline in south London to official inhabitant represents a true rags to riches story that outshines many political biographies.

Government Life

When tensions ran high during the political partnership, former Prime Minister the ex-PM was keen to dismiss any suggestions of animosity between him and the nation's new beloved feline. "The story is I dislike Larry - I do," he announced during one parliamentary session.

Now a more established presence, the cat appears completely accustomed to the spotlight. Often seen on broadcast television lingering calmly by the front door, his relaxed demeanor in front of cameras has become rather troublesome for the Downing Street groundskeeper - Larry frequently visits the front garden to do his business.

Formal Responsibilities

His government description describes the elderly cat as passing his days greeting guests, inspecting protection measures, and evaluating antique furniture for sleeping comfort. His day-to-day responsibilities include considering solutions to the mouse presence in the residence.

While the cat is the first to hold this particular position, cats have been accepted in the corridors of government for at least a hundred years. "Consistency is an vital part of the cat's attraction," noted one expert who has studied people-pet connections.

Diplomatic Presence

The cat possesses an acute sense of official timing. "The minute anything occurs on the road, particularly an formal visit, like clockwork, he'll be outside the front," commented a Downing Street source. "Larry adores the red carpet."

Ex- US leader Barack Obama and Ukraine's leader Zelenskyy are among the international leaders he has impressed. However, not leaders were similarly fond.

Personality and Preferences

"The former PM famously hated him because she was a canine person," said one photographer who has seen several MPs trying, and unsuccessfully, to stroke the cat.

When not treading the pavements, his frequent resting places include the office equipment and in-trays, but his preferred spots are on the ledges on both sides of the front door.

Public Adoration

The cat's popularity with the people remains undeniable. There are multiple online accounts devoted to the country's chief cat, including one with more than 868,000 followers. He also gets letters, playthings, and treats from around the globe and has lately been featured in a book about government animals.

Criticism and Answer

As top feline, he inevitably receives his share of complaints. One government commentator recently called Larry as "too fat and too lazy to actually do his duties," accusing him of being "support dependent."

In reply, sources close to Larry have issued a strong response. They explain that Larry is not publicly funded, with Number 10 staff willingly paying his expenses.