The Cat in the British Cabinet

Cats have stalked the corridors of British government since the reign of Henry VIII, but few have gotten as much publicity as Humphrey, the first feline to be named chief government mouser. 

The black-and-white cat wandered into No. 10 Downing Street in 1989 and was quickly employed by the cabinet office. His winning personality and track record ensured his position under three successive prime ministers.

But like most political animals his appointment was not scandal-free; in 1994, Humphrey was blamed for the death of several baby robins. 

The cabinet office leaped to his defense, maintaining that Humphrey had been ill and “could not have caught anything even if it had been roast duck with orange sauce presented to him on a plate.” 

It took an official inquiry to clear his name. After eight years of service, Humphrey officially retired on November 13, 1997, but even this was not without intrigue. Despite his strong support within the Labour Party, the press speculated that he had been forced from his position by none other than Tony Blair’s wife, Cherie.

Nutty News Today – Nutty Videos – Nutty News Facebook Page – Nutty News on Pinterest -  Nutty News on Twitter  - Nutty Videos on Twitter - Strange Crime Stories - Strange Crime Stories on Twitter  - Nutty Facts – Nutty Jokes –  Submit Nutty News