Home / Technology / NHS Staff Boycott Palantir Over Ethical Fears
NHS Staff Boycott Palantir Over Ethical Fears
6 Apr
Summary
- NHS staff are boycotting Palantir's software due to ethical concerns.
- Concerns include Palantir's ties to defense and immigration agencies.
- The UK government is reportedly considering a contract break clause.
A growing contingent of NHS staff, encompassing both clinical and non-clinical roles, are reportedly refusing to use Palantir's Federated Data Platform (FDP). This resistance is primarily fueled by ethical objections to Palantir's extensive ties with US defense, intelligence, and immigration enforcement sectors. Concerns about patient data privacy and robust governance also remain prominent.
Campaigners argue that using the platform amounts to endorsing Palantir. In response to the backlash, UK politicians have acknowledged the criticisms regarding value, transparency, and trust, leading to considerations of a contract break clause. Despite this, Palantir's presence in the UK is set to continue, as the Financial Conduct Authority recently awarded the tech firm a three-month trial contract.
