The article investigates Palantir's £330m NHS contract, revealing concerns about the technology's efficacy and the company's political lobbying.Despite NHS England's claims of success, internal data shows many trusts have not used the federated data platform (FDP) as intended.Clinicians report slower performance compared to existing systems, with some abandoning Palantir's software due to usability issues.The piece highlights vendor lock-in risks and national security concerns, given Palantir's ties to defense and surveillance sectors.

Political access through lobbying firms like Global Counsel has facilitated the company's expansion into British public services, prompting calls for a break clause in the FDP contract.

While some institutions claim cost savings after switching from Palantir, the article questions whether the technology delivers value for money, urging scrutiny of its role in public services.