From Manchester to Downing Street: What Burnham could mean for Palantir
Summary
Andy Burnham, likely to become the UK Labour leader and prime minister, may change the government’s approach to a large NHS contract with Palantir Technologies, a US defense and software company. Burnham’s past as mayor of Greater Manchester saw no contracts with Palantir, and his team is reportedly working on a new technology strategy that favors British companies and data security.Key Facts
- Palantir has a 7-year, £330 million ($440 million) contract with NHS England.
- Andy Burnham was Mayor of Greater Manchester from 2017 to June 2024 and did not award any contracts to Palantir during that time.
- Greater Manchester’s NHS leaders developed their own data system instead of using Palantir’s software.
- Burnham’s advisers are drafting an AI strategy that prioritizes British companies and workers.
- Burnham’s team emphasizes the need for government contracts to provide good value for taxpayers and protect data and national interests.
- Palantir has been working with several UK public bodies, including the Ministry of Defence and Home Office.
- Some groups consider Palantir a potential security risk, raising concerns about reliance on American software.
- Burnham’s approach marks a shift from the current Labour government under Keir Starmer, which welcomed US-based tech companies.
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