NHS Staff Refuse to Use Palantir Platform Over Ethical Concerns

A growing number of NHS staff are refusing to work with the Federated Data Platform (FDP) provided by Palantir, citing ethical concerns about the US technology company's involvement in defense and its leadership's political affiliations.

The Situation

• £330 million contract awarded to Palantir in 2023
• 123 of 205 hospital trusts in England currently using FDP
• Staff engaging in "workplace adjustments" — officially refusing to use the software
• Some working "as slowly as possible" when pressured to use it
• High rating for on-time, on-budget delivery despite staff resistance

Why Staff Object

• Palantir's defense sector involvement (US military contracts)
• Leadership's political affiliations with controversial figures
• Concerns about handling sensitive patient data by a defense contractor
• Availability of better alternatives according to staff

Government Response

• MPs and medical unions pressuring ministers to eject Palantir
• Government reportedly seeking advice on triggering a contract break clause
• Palantir UK executive vice-chair calls campaigns "ideologically motivated"

Significance

This case highlights the growing tension between:

1. Government efficiency goals (the FDP delivers on time and budget)
2. Ethical procurement concerns (defense contractors handling health data)
3. Worker agency (staff refusing tools on moral grounds)
4. Public trust (patient confidence in data handling)

The NHS-Palantir case could become a precedent for how public healthcare systems worldwide approach partnerships with defense-adjacent technology companies.