In brief
Palmerston, the beloved British Foreign Service cat, has made headlines once again as he takes up a new position as a Feline Relations Consultant in Bermuda. After retiring in 2020, the black-and-white rescue cat is back in action, igniting nostalgia for his past exploits at the Foreign Office.
Palmerston is no stranger to diplomacy, having served as a prominent figure at the British Foreign Office since his appointment in 2016. Known for his rivalry with Larry, the chief mouser at 10 Downing Street, Palmerston stepped back from public life in 2020 to enjoy a quieter existence. There were whispers of memoirs, but it seemed his main activity involved climbing trees rather than reflecting on his multifaceted career.However, the call of duty has drawn him back to the international stage. “I’ve just started work as feline relations consultant (semi-retired) to the new Governor of Bermuda,” Palmerston announced on X, the social media platform formerly known as Twitter. He expressed enthusiasm for his new surroundings and the warm reception he has received from local residents.Andrew Murdoch, appointed as Bermuda's new governor in September, had previously shared a close working relationship with the cat during their time at the Foreign Office and even resided together during Palmerston’s retirement. Named after the notable British Prime Minister Lord Palmerston, this black-and-white feline has continued to embody a spirit of diplomacy and teamwork—especially in the realm of pest control.Although his age remains uncertain, Palmerston was believed to be around two years old when he started his illustrious career in diplomacy. The cat’s previous retirement raised questions among fans and followers, with many assuming the worst due to his lowered visibility. Lord Simon McDonald, a former senior civil servant, humorously addressed this concern, providing reassurance with the positive news of Palmerston's invigorated role.Meanwhile, the feud between Palmerston and Larry remains a point of interest. The rivalry has gone down in history since 2016 when Larry attempted to gain entry to the Foreign Office but was met with Palmerston's disapproval, leaving Larry requiring veterinary care. With Palmerston now residing in Bermuda, analysts speculate that the longstanding rivalry may finally cool.As this remarkable cat brings his charm and experience to the shores of Bermuda, he remains a delightful symbol of the quirky side of government service. The world watches eagerly as he embarks on this latest chapter of his captivating life.
