Palmerston, the beloved retired chief mouser at the Foreign Office, passed away peacefully in Bermuda on February 12.
Larry, Number 10 Downing Street’s chief mouser, led tributes with a poignant X post: “Farewell old friend x.” The message coincides with Larry’s birthday, as noted on his account with over one million followers.
Palmerston’s Whitehall Legacy
A rescue from Battersea Dogs and Cats Home, Palmerston joined the Foreign Office during Boris Johnson’s time as Foreign Secretary. He served four years in Whitehall, earning fame as “Diplocat extraordinaire,” before retiring in 2020 and settling in Bermuda’s Government House.
An official X post announced his passing: “Palmerston, Diplocat extraordinaire, passed away peacefully on 12 February. ‘Palmy’ was a special member of the Government House team in Bermuda, and a much loved family member. He was a wonderful companion, with a gentle nature, and will be sorely missed.”
Widespread Tributes
Labour MP Sarah Champion shared: “RIP.” Former Whitehall staffers posted photos and fond memories, celebrating his gentle personality.
Palmerston and Larry shared a rumored long-running feud during their Westminster days, adding a lighthearted note to their story.
Retirement Reflections
In a 2020 retirement letter to Sir Simon McDonald, permanent under-secretary at the Foreign and Commonwealth Office, Palmerston sought a quieter life post-pandemic: “I have found life away from the front line relaxed, quieter, and easier.”
The letter praised his impact: “My 105,000 Twitter followers show that even those with four legs and fur have an important part to play in the UK’s global effort. I have championed our work, built our relationships, and celebrated the diversity of our staff.”
Jon Benjamin, director of the Diplomatic Academy, offered retirement wishes: “He left us a slightly chewed dead mouse next to my desk in @UKDipAcademy once, and we were of course not very grateful.”
