Thank you for contacting me about the NHS Federated Data Platform (FDP).
I note your concerns about the delivery of the FDP by Palantir, and its adoption by NHS Trusts across England.
When awarding the FDP contract to Palantir in 2023, the last Government was clear that only authorised users should be granted access to data for approved purposes, such as NHS staff, those supporting them like administrators or bed managers, as well as social care staff supporting patients to move from hospital care.
At the time, Ministers were also clear that the provider of the software should not hold or have access to NHS data for their own purposes, other than as directed by NHS.
Since taking office, the current Government has repeated these assurances, and also affirmed that personal data stored in the FDP and its associated services cannot be accessed by Palantir's own personnel or contractors from outside the UK.
This means that all data must be held within the UK and is subject to UK data protection law, including the UK General Data Protection Regulation.
The Government must take further steps to reassure the public about the limits on how NHS data can be used in the FDP, and assess how staff are engaging with the platform.
Early evidence suggests that the FDP may be having a positive impact on outcomes within the NHS in England. However, my colleague Neil Shastri-Hurst MP called on the Minister to provide reassurance that the NHS will not be reliant on a single supplier over the long-term and how practical it would be to move to an alternative system if required.
Looking ahead, it is important that the NHS makes use of the best technology - and work with the world’s leading technology companies – to help save lives, reduce waiting lists and help staff deliver better care.
While I do not support triggering the break clause for the contract, there have been some media reports suggesting that the Prime Minister is considering this option. This speculation is causing significant uncertainty for the NHS and adding to questions about future oversight of the FDP, given the proposed abolition of NHS England and restructuring of Integrated Care Boards.
Thank you again for taking the time to contact me.
