Keir Starmer introduces new kitten to Downing Street, faces challenges with security

Keir Starmer’s household will welcome a new Siberian kitten to join Larry the cat.

Sir Keir Starmer's household at Downing Street is set to welcome a new Siberian kitten, joining the existing cat, Larry. The kitten, chosen after “a long summer of negotiations,” will be introduced into the high-security environment of Number 10, which poses some logistical challenges.

Starmer explained in a BBC 5 Live interview that the main issue is installing a cat flap in the bomb-proof doors of their residence. “The problem we’ve got, which is the same for JoJo the cat, is that the only door out of our new flat is bomb-proof,” Starmer said. “Therefore, getting a cat flap in is proving a little bit difficult.” Despite these obstacles, he and his family decided that having a second cat would not complicate the situation further.

Larry, the current chief mouser at Downing Street, has gained fame over the years for his role in the political sphere. Starmer noted that the decision to get a kitten instead of a dog was influenced by his daughters’ preferences. “We are now getting a kitten instead of a dog,” he added.

The new kitten will join the family’s rescue cat, JoJo, and Starmer's daughters are set to pick it up. Social media responses have been positive, though some users humorously questioned Larry’s role with the new addition. An account dedicated to Larry affirmed that “The kitten will REPORT to Larry the Cat.”

Sarah Elliott from Cats Protection advised that the introduction of the new kitten should be handled carefully to ensure a smooth transition in the busy household.