IWD: Boris Johnson praises Covid vaccine pioneers as Met carries out first all-female operation

inspiration to all of us’

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Boris Johnson has used International Women’s Day to pay tribute to some of those involved in the fight against coronavirus.

The Prime Minister praised the work of Professor Sarah Gilbert, who helped develop the Oxford/AstraZeneca vaccine, former vaccines taskforce head Kate Bingham, medical regulator boss Dr June Raine, and NHS England’s Dr Emily Lawson and Dr Nikki Kanani.

“Their ingenuity, dedication and hard work is an inspiration to all of us,” he said.

His comments came as hundreds of events were being held around the world to mark International Women’s Day, with protests being staged in a number of cities.

In the UK, musical performances, fun runs and walks and educational sessions were taking place.

In London, the Metropolitan Police held its first ever all-female operation to help tackle robbery and violent crime.

Every callout regarding robbery or violent crime in the south London boroughs of Lambeth and Southwark on Saturday’s late shift was dealt with by members of an all-female team to mark International Women’s Day.

Acting Inspector Becky Perkins said: “It was important for me to bring together lots of different women from various departments to truly showcase our capabilities.”

Scotland Yard Commissioner Cressida Dick said: “I thank each and every incredible woman in the Met for their hard work and dedication.

“I urge other women to consider joining a fantastic, exciting and rewarding career alongside a diverse range of fantastic people.”

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