Larry the cat welcomed Andy Burnham as the new prime minister of the United Kingdom at 10 Downing Street this week.

The interaction highlights a rare point of continuity in British governance as the nation's leadership changes. While prime ministers transition, the resident feline remains a permanent fixture of the official residence.

Burnham is the seventh prime minister to lead the country in 10 years [1]. This rapid succession of leadership underscores a period of significant political turnover in the UK. Despite the revolving door of politicians, Larry continues his role as the official chief mouser.

Larry has served at Downing Street for more than 15 years [2]. During this tenure, the cat has become a global symbol of the residence, often stealing the spotlight from the politicians who move in and out of the building.

Reports said Larry has now welcomed seven prime ministers to the residence [3]. The feline's greeting of the new leader was shared online to provide public amusement during the transition of power.

Burnham enters the office during a time of frequent leadership shifts. The presence of Larry serves as a lighthearted tradition that persists regardless of the party in power, or the specific policy goals of the incoming administration.

“Larry has now welcomed seven prime ministers to the residence.”

The recurring role of Larry the cat serves as a cultural anchor for the British public during periods of high political volatility. With seven prime ministers arriving in a single decade, the stability of the resident pet provides a symbolic contrast to the instability of the executive office.