Dozens of protesters took to the streets outside a UK health conference to voice strong opposition to a multi-million dollar deal between the National Health Service (NHS) and American software giant Palantir. The demonstration, held in Manchester, highlighted concerns over national security, data privacy, and the company's political ties.
Around 80 demonstrators, some dressed in hospital gowns, gathered early Thursday at the NHS ConfedExpo, urging NHS leadership to scrap the contract worth up to $440 million. The agreement, which grants Palantir access to its data analytics and AI services until 2031, includes a crucial break clause allowing the government to terminate the deal as early as next February.
Chanting slogans like "Hands off our NHS" and "Palantir has got to go," the protesters, organized by the activist group Pull the Plug, held signs reading "Patients vs. Palantir." They expressed worries about sensitive health data falling into foreign hands, citing Palantir's work with US Immigration and Customs Enforcement and the Israeli military. “Palantir should be kicked out of the NHS, forthwith,” stated one NHS nurse, identifying himself only as John.
The protest saw support from organizations like Amnesty International and the healthcare workers' union Unison. Frieda Lurken, cofounder of Pull the Plug, emphasized the need for public input on AI's role in healthcare. The UK government first partnered with Palantir in 2020 to track the COVID-19 virus, with the company since securing various public sector contracts by promising to enhance efficiency through data analysis.
However, the relationship has faced scrutiny. Controversial remarks from Palantir cofounder Peter Thiel and concerns over a company manifesto have fueled doubts about its suitability. Palantir has consistently denied any political bias, with Louis Mosley, head of Palantir's European business, stating the company holds a "full spectrum of political views."
Questions also linger about the platform's effectiveness. While Palantir claims success in reducing wait times, one NHS division has opted for its in-house software, deeming it superior. Laura Gilbert of the Tony Blair Institute argued that such critical data analysis should remain within the country. Conversely, Ayub Bhayat, director of data and analytics at the NHS, asserted the federated data platform benefits both patients and taxpayers.
A recent parliamentary report warned that the UK's increasing reliance on Palantir presents "an unacceptable point of weakness" and a "clear mismatch with UK values." In response, the UK technology secretary announced a comprehensive review of the NHS contract. Palantir's legal team has reportedly prepared to sue London's mayor over a separate blocked deal with the Metropolitan Police, citing procurement concerns.
