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Larry the Number 10 cat has fallen behind his Foreign Office rival when it comes to catching mice.

Official figures have revealed that Palmerston, who arrived at the FCO from Battersea Dogs and Cats Home in 2016, is excelling in his role.

By contrast, Larry has become better known for his strolls along Downing Street and frequent appearances on journalists' social media accounts.

Documents released under Freedom of Information (FOI) laws show Palmerston, named after former foreign secretary and two-time prime minister Viscount Palmerston, caught at least 27 mice since arriving.

But volunteers who look after the black-and-white cat claim that figure is "likely to be much higher".

The FCO said: "The FCO does not keep an accurate figure for the amount of mice caught by Palmerston.

"The PUS's (Permanent Under-Secretary, Sir Simon McDonald) office do receive reported sightings of Palmerston catching mice - so far (since Palmerston's arrival in April 2016) this figure is at 27.

"This figure is likely to be much higher as these are only reported sightings."

The FOI request also reveals that Palmerston is "usually" fed Whiskas, although much of his food is donated meaning he enjoys a variety of brands.

The FCO said it was unable to provide details of the cost of Palmerston's care but added the bill was met voluntarily by staff.