Larry, The Downing Street Cat - I'm big in Japan 🇯🇵

There I was this afternoon, enjoying what I considered to be a perfectly justified nap on my favourite fluffy cushion in the drawing room, when I became aware of unfamiliar voices drifting through the corridors. Now, one learns to distinguish sounds in this place. There are the usual noises: ministers rushing about looking worried and my staff opening tins of tuna with what I regard as unnecessary delay. This was different. The voices had travelled considerably further than most. Curiosity eventually got the better of me, so I rose from my cushion, stretched with appropriate dignity, and strolled into the corridor to investigate. Imagine my surprise when I found myself face-to-face with the Japanese Prime Minister. Takaichi. We're on first-name terms, naturally. I like to maintain a broad circle of international contacts. I was, however, somewhat disappointed to discover that MY STAFF had neglected to inform me she was visiting. When challenged on this alarming lapse in protocol, they muttered something about me being "impossible to find." Which is nonsense. I was exactly where I always am. As is customary with visiting dignitaries, she arrived accompanied by an entourage of approximately three thousand people. Or possibly twenty. It's often difficult to tell. Either way, they all appeared delighted by the prospect of a complimentary tour of my residence, along with the possibility of free food and drink. Before any guests are granted full access, however, one of my many responsibilities is to conduct a discreet security assessment. Officially, I am checking for threats to national security. Unofficially, I'm making sure nobody leaves with the cutlery. I am pleased to report that the Japanese delegation passed inspection with flying colours. They were courteous, respectful and impeccably behaved throughout. Not a single teaspoon went missing. So, all in all, it was a successful afternoon. Diplomacy was conducted, guests were welcomed, silverware remained accounted for, and no international incidents occurred. Frankly, that's a better outcome than some weeks around here. Larry the Cat Tuna Addict, Chief Mouser, Diplomatic Observer, and Guardian of the National Cutlery Collection. #cats #cats #catsanddogs #larrythecat #larry #pets #animals