Larry the cat joins David Cameron in Downing Street

David Cameron has welcomed a cat to Downing Street in an effort to deal with No 10's rat problem.

The four-year old tabby, called Larry, was at London's Battersea Dogs and Cats Home before moving in to the UK Prime Minister's home.

The arrival follows weeks of speculation about potential pest control measures after a large black rat was seen scuttling past No 10.

A Downing Street spokesman said the former stray was a "good ratter".

Larry arrived via van shortly after 1300 GMT, and was carried into Number 10 in a covered cage.

According to Downing Street, the animal has "a high chase-drive and hunting instinct", developed during his time on the streets.

A spokesman said he had also shown "a very strong predatory drive" and enjoyed playing with toy mice. (Complete article is here .)