Tom Watson, a former Labour deputy leader and defence minister, has assumed a senior vice-president position at Palantir, the US-based technology corporation. In recent comments, Watson cautioned against allowing public sentiment to drive government procurement decisions, stating that ministers risk serious consequences if they succumb to what he characterized as “mob rule” rather than following established legal frameworks.
Palantir has become the subject of significant political controversy in the UK. The company, co-founded by billionaire Peter Thiel, has attracted criticism due to its work providing software to the Israeli military and participation in immigration enforcement operations. These activities have generated backlash from Labour MPs, unions, and protest movements focused on Gaza-related issues. Prime Minister Andy Burnham is facing substantial pressure to cancel Palantir’s involvement in public sector projects, most notably a £330m software arrangement with the National Health Service.
The technology firm is simultaneously engaged in legal proceedings with London Mayor Sadiq Khan over his decision to block a £50m contract involving the use of artificial intelligence in Metropolitan Police investigations. Palantir maintains a significant presence in the UK, reporting annual revenues of £427m, while seeking to expand its role in additional public sector contracts.
Watson acknowledged that Palantir’s Israeli operations have drawn it into controversy, stating the company finds itself “in the middle of the row of the Gaza protests” despite not being Israeli itself. He also indicated willingness to work with alternative political administrations on relevant initiatives.
Labour MP Chi Onwurah, who chairs the science, innovation and technology committee, expressed concern about government over-dependence on a single US corporation subject to American legislation, cautioning that policymakers should not be “blinded by tech hype.”
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