Public opposition grows over NHS data contract with US tech firm
A new survey has revealed that two-thirds of British voters are against the government’s decision to award a major contract to the US technology company, Palantir. The deal, which is worth £330 million, involves the firm managing patient data for the National Health Service (NHS).
The YouGov poll highlights significant public concern regarding how personal health information is handled. Many citizens are worried about the involvement of a private, foreign-owned company in the management of sensitive medical records. This contract is part of a wider government strategy to modernize the NHS using advanced data analytics.
Palantir, a company known for its work in data analysis and intelligence, has defended its role in the project. The firm states that it provides the software to help the NHS organize information more efficiently, but it does not own or sell the patient data. Government officials have also insisted that the system includes strict security measures to protect patient privacy.
Despite these assurances, the poll suggests that the public remains skeptical. Critics of the partnership argue that the NHS should prioritize transparency and public trust when choosing technology partners. As the debate continues, the government faces increasing pressure to explain how it will ensure that patient information remains secure under this new agreement.