Key facts
- MPs are urging the NHS to prepare to replace Palantir's Federated Data Platform (FDP) contract by its February 2027 break clause.
- Concerns over public mistrust and the evidence supporting the FDP's benefits have been raised by MPs.
- NHS England has acknowledged it cannot directly link FDP implementation to improvements in waiting lists or procedures.
- Some NHS trusts already possess capabilities that exceed those offered by the FDP.
- The government is reportedly exploring UK technology companies as potential replacements for Palantir.
- A 12-month extension for Palantir or splitting the program among multiple suppliers are also being considered.
A cross-party group of UK MPs has urged the government to begin planning for life after Palantir, recommending that the NHS use a break clause in its £330 million Federated Data Platform (FDP) contract in February 2027 to find a replacement. The House of Commons Health and Social Care Committee, in a letter to Health Innovation Minister Preet Kaur Gill, stated that ministers should assess alternatives now so a replacement could be in place by March 2027 if they decide not to continue with Palantir.
MPs reached this conclusion after questioning ministers and NHS England officials about the platform's benefits. NHS England has since revised its website, removing claims that the FDP was responsible for cutting waiting lists and boosting the number of procedures, now stating that it "cannot therefore draw conclusions about cause and effect as other variables have not been controlled for."
The committee highlighted "serious mistrust" of Palantir among the public, warning that the company's involvement with NHS data could discourage patients from allowing their information to be used. This loss of confidence, they argued, could undermine the NHS's broader efforts to leverage patient data. Furthermore, MPs noted that some NHS trusts already possess capabilities beyond those offered by the FDP, suggesting Palantir should not be considered the only option for the entire health service.
Health and Social Care Committee chair Layla Moran stated, "Little by little, the government's arguments for sticking with the FDP has [sic] unravelled. So in the interest of public confidence in the NHS and the security of their medical information, we believe it is time to crack on with preparations to find an alternative in time for spring 2027." She added, "The FDP may have had some advantages, but there are also downsides and it is evidently not the only show in town."
This recommendation adds to existing pressure on ministers regarding Palantir's NHS deal. Another parliamentary committee has previously advised using the 2027 break clause, and campaigners have questioned the procurement process, transparency, and evidence supporting the platform's claimed benefits. The Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) did not respond to questions about its readiness to seek a Palantir successor. The Financial Times reported that the government is searching for UK technology companies, including Quantexa, as possible candidates, and is considering a temporary 12-month extension for Palantir or splitting the program among several suppliers.