Chi Onwurah, a Labour MP and chair of the science, innovation and technology select committee, has dismissed claims by Palantir that criticisms regarding its £330 million contract with NHS England are “ideologically motivated.” Onwurah stated that it was appropriate for the government to seek guidance on how to activate a break clause in the deal with the US data analytics company.
Concerns Over Palantir’s NHS Contract
Palantir’s executive vice-chair in the UK, Louis Mosley, had urged the government not to yield to what he described as “ideologically motivated campaigners” while ministers explored options to exit the contract. The deal involves the delivery of the Federated Data Platform (FDP), an AI-enabled system designed to integrate various health information across the NHS.
Onwurah’s committee is currently conducting an inquiry into the digital reorganization of government and public services, including the role of artificial intelligence. The committee has gathered evidence from experts, NHS leaders, and companies like Palantir. Onwurah highlighted three main areas of concern regarding the contract:
- The contract awarded to Palantir.
- The use of patient data.
- The level of distrust in the NHS that may hinder its transition from analogue to digital.
Issues of Trust and Transparency
Onwurah emphasized that these concerns are not fringe issues but significant matters that should be addressed, particularly for those advocating for the NHS’s digital transformation. She noted that many NHS staff are experiencing burnout due to the pressures of COVID-19 and austerity, which complicates the integration of new technologies.
Additionally, Onwurah pointed out the circumstances under which Palantir was awarded the contract, suggesting that the company had previously worked with the NHS at a nominal cost. This practice is common among large tech firms, which often provide free or discounted services to position themselves favorably for government contracts.
Onwurah stated, “I think it’s right [the government] are exploring all options including how to break with the contract, as there are ongoing concerns about the take-up of the FDP, as long as it is being run by Palantir.”
Martin Wrigley, a Liberal Democrat member of the committee, has also called for the government to consider forming a new consortium of UK tech experts to develop a platform for the NHS.
In response to the criticisms, Mosley has accused British doctors of prioritizing ideology over patient interests, asserting that removing Palantir from NHS data systems would harm patient care and hinder the resolution of significant challenges facing the NHS.
Source: Original report