UK government considers ending Palantir's NHS data platform deal
Original: The UK government is considering ending Palantir's involvement in a central NHS data platform after coming under fire from MPs, unions, and campaigners
Why This Matters
Major public sector tech contract faces potential termination amid sovereignty concerns
UK ministers are weighing use of break clause in £330M Palantir NHS contract after criticism from MPs, unions, and campaigners. Junior health minister says decision depends on patient safety, quality, and value for money evaluation.
The UK government may terminate Palantir's involvement in the NHS Federated Data Platform using a break clause next spring. The £330 million seven-year contract has faced criticism for delivering only 3-4 of 13 promised capabilities. Liberal Democrat MP Martin Wrigley said only half of 200 planned NHS trusts are live on the system, with just a quarter reporting benefits. The contract leaves NHS with no software ownership or intellectual property, creating permanent vendor lock-in. Health minister Zubir Ahmed said decisions will prioritize patient safety and value for money. Science minister Patrick Vallance previously promised a different approach aligned with sovereign tech policy after the break clause.