US data analytics firm Palantir, valued at $375bn, faces growing criticism for its AI-driven software used by governments and corporations globally, including the NHS and US military. Concerns range from data privacy and potential misuse to its CEO's controversial statements and its role in geopolitical tensions.
Newly released documents reveal Peter Mandelson received sensitive security briefings and met with MI6 heads before completing his vetting process for the Washington ambassador role. Questions remain over withheld documents and security concerns.
Keir Starmer appointed Peter Mandelson as UK ambassador to the US in December 2024. UKSV, the Cabinet Office agency responsible for security vetting, concluded in late January 2025 that Mandelson should not receive Developed Vetting (DV) clearance required for frequent access to top-secret material. However, the Foreign Office overruled this decision and granted the clearance anyway, allowing Mandelson to take up the Washington post. A prior due diligence check by the Foreign Office's propriety and ethics team had warned of "general reputational risk" in the appointment. The reasons for UKSV's rejection have not been made public.
