UK Government Considers Ending NHS Data Contract with Palantir

The UK government is contemplating terminating its £330 million contract with Palantir for the NHS Federated Data Platform (FDP) due to mounting criticism from MPs, unions, and campaigners. The contract, initially set for seven years, includes a break clause next spring. Junior Health Minister Zubir Ahmed emphasized the importance of patient safety, quality, and value for money, suggesting that alternative providers might be considered if they offer better solutions.

Liberal Democrat MP Martin Wrigley highlighted significant issues with the FDP, claiming it is cumbersome, benefits only a fraction of its users, and leaves the NHS without any intellectual property. He criticized the subscription model, which results in no tangible deliverables post-contract, and urged for a staged exit from Palantir to foster British sovereign capabilities.

Wrigley noted that Palantir has only partially delivered on its promised capabilities, with only a quarter of NHS trusts reporting benefits. He also pointed out that NHS professionals already possess superior data analytics tools, and the Palantir system requires custom software for data integration, embedding Palantir's code within NHS trusts.

The debate also touched on the lack of transparency in the procurement process and the controversial political affiliations of Palantir's leadership. Despite these concerns, Ahmed defended the FDP's role in enhancing NHS productivity and patient outcomes, while clarifying that Palantir does not own the NHS data or intellectual property.

The contract's future remains uncertain, with potential for a new tender that could involve British companies. This decision aligns with recent sovereign tech policy shifts, aiming to secure the NHS's data management under more trusted and transparent arrangements.