Ben Shephard sparks fury with Larry the Cat announcement as fuming co-star hits out

This Morning's Ben Shephard made a sombre interruption to the popular ITV programme with a distressing update concerning Downing Street's beloved Larry the Cat.

The venerable 16 year old mouser, who has been a fixture at Number 10 since 2011, serving dutifully through various administrations since his introduction during David Cameron's tenure, isn't technically owned by the Prime Minister but became a part of the establishment under Conservative rule.

Rescued from Battersea Dogs and Cats Home back in 2011, Larry has cohabited with several canine counterparts, including Chancellor Rishi Sunak's Labrador, Nova. With reports swirling that Sir Keir Starmer might introduce a family dog to Downing Street, fulfilling a promise to his children for a pet, speculation is rife about Larry's future.

Ben sparked a heated debate on the show when he suggested that Larry might "step aside" with the arrival of a Labour government, causing an uproar in the studio and concern among fans online.

He initiated the conversation with: "I'm really intrigued to find out whether the ballot for the new dog in Downing Street is going well for the Starmer children. They were petitioning their father for a German Shepherd dog if they go to Number 10," reports the Mirror.

Gyles Brandreth questioned: "Have they discussed this with Larry the Cat?" leading Ben to disclose: "Well, Larry the Cat might have to step aside."

An irate Gyles interjected: "I'm so sorry, but this is the first misstep of the new government! I'll tell you, there are as many cat lovers as dog lovers."

Ben stated: "Yes, he's Chief Mouser to the government. But the Starmer children want a German Shepherd dog. That was their part of the deal if dad gets into Number 10, they want a dog."

Gyles conceded: "Now we're getting controversial!"

An online fan pleaded: "Leave Larry the f*** alone!" while another concurred: "Larry best not be going anywhere actually Ben!"

This follows reports that Keir Starmer's own cat could challenge Larry for his esteemed cabinet role. Keir plans to bring his pet, JoJo, into Downing Street, with Cats Protection spokesperson Nicky Trevorrow advising the Daily Mail: "It's natural for cats to feel threatened when a new cat comes along, as they'll be protective of their territory and all the perks that come with it like food, shelter and warmth."

"That's why it's important to take it really slowly, keep them in separate areas and get them used to each other's scent before they actually see each other. When they're familiar with another cat's smell, it'll make the face-to-face introduction much easier."