Palmerston, the Foreign Office's Beloved Feline Diplomat, Passes Away in Bermuda
The diplomatic world is mourning the loss of a unique public servant. Palmerston, the retired chief mouser of the Foreign Office, has died peacefully in Bermuda at the age where he had been enjoying his retirement. The news was confirmed through an emotional announcement on his official social media account.
A Rescue Cat's Remarkable Journey to Whitehall
Palmerston's story began humbly as a rescue cat from Battersea Dogs and Cats Home before he embarked on an unexpected career in government service. He joined the Foreign Office during Boris Johnson's tenure as Foreign Secretary, quickly becoming a beloved fixture in Whitehall corridors. For four years, he served as the department's official chief mouser, charming staff and visitors alike with his gentle presence.
In 2020, after what was described as distinguished service, Palmerston retired from his official duties. The decision came during the coronavirus pandemic, with a letter written in his name explaining that he had discovered the benefits of "working from home" and wished to spend more time "away from the limelight." He subsequently relocated to the island paradise of Bermuda, where he spent his final years as part of the Government House team.
Emotional Tributes from the Political Feline Community
The announcement of Palmerston's passing on February 12th prompted an outpouring of tributes from across the political spectrum. Most notably, Larry the cat – Downing Street's own chief mouser – led the condolences with a simple but heartfelt message on his satirical social media account, which boasts over one million followers: "Farewell old friend x."
This tribute carries particular significance given the long-rumoured feud between the two feline officials during their overlapping tenures in Westminster. Photographs from 2017 show the pair together, though reports suggested their relationship was more competitive than collegial at times.
A Diplomatic Legacy Remembered
Palmerston's impact extended beyond mere rodent control. His retirement letter highlighted how he had championed the Foreign Office's work, built relationships, and celebrated staff diversity, noting that his 105,000 social media followers demonstrated "that even those with four legs and fur have an important part to play in the UK's global effort."
Former Foreign Office staff members have shared fond memories and photographs of their time with the diplomatic cat. Jon Benjamin, director of the department's Diplomatic Academy, recalled how Palmerston once left "a slightly chewed dead mouse" next to his desk – a gift that was apparently not fully appreciated at the time but now forms part of his enduring legacy.
The timing of Palmerston's passing adds a poignant layer to the news, as it coincides with what is reportedly Larry the cat's birthday according to his social media accounts. Labour MP Sarah Champion joined the tributes with a simple "RIP," while others have celebrated Palmerston's life as both a public servant and cherished companion.
Palmerston's story – from Battersea rescue to Whitehall diplomat to Bermuda retiree – represents one of the more unusual but heartwarming chapters in recent British political history. His gentle nature and unexpected diplomatic contributions will be sorely missed by those who knew him, both human and feline.
