Former Labour deputy joins Palantir as tech giant targets UK growth
Former Labour deputy leader Tom Watson has joined Palantir as a senior vice president as the US tech firm looks to expand its work with the British government while facing mounting scrutiny over its public sector contracts. Watson, who served as an MP for 18 years and held ministerial roles under Gordon Brown, will work [...]
Former Deputy Leader of the Labour Party, Tom Watson, has joined Palantir as a Senior Vice President. The US tech giant is targeting the UK market, expanding its work with the British government while facing scrutiny over its public sector contracts. Watson, an MP for 18 years and holding ministerial roles under Gordon Brown, will collaborate with Palantir’s UK and Europe chief, Louis Mosley.
He has been a part-time adviser to Palantir since 2024. Watson will focus on the company's work in defence, policing, and the NHS, as well as addressing concerns about the firm. In his words, "Palantir is the most interesting company on the planet, doing work of real consequence." The company holds a £330 million contract for the NHS Federated Data Platform but is facing calls from Labour MPs and campaigners for the government to reconsider the deal.
Palantir is also in a dispute with London Mayor Sadiq Khan over a £50 million contract with the Metropolitan Police. Watson's appointment adds to a growing list of former senior British politicians working with major technology and AI companies.
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