Good morning. Attention remains on the Peter Mandelson story, with new document releases examined by Peter Walker and Henry Dyer highlighting missing papers. Today the focus shifts to Palantir, a US data analytics firm that has expanded rapidly since the pandemic. Its AI tools help clients interpret complex datasets worldwide, including patient records for the NHS and targeting support for the US military in Iran. The company now holds a $375bn valuation. Founded in 2003 by Peter Thiel after 9/11, Palantir serves clients such as the Israeli military, NHS, and US immigration authorities. Its CEO Alex Karp released a controversial manifesto earlier this year. Guardian reporter Aisha Down discussed the firm’s expansion and rising criticism. Headlines include: Peter Mandelson received security briefings before full vetting; Russian strikes killed five in Ukrainian cities; UK green economy projects promise many jobs and investment; Donald Trump may drop a compensation fund push; and Sir Alan Bates criticised post office redress schemes. Palantir draws its name from Tolkien’s seeing stones. Critics link its work with police, health services and militaries to concerns over power and ethics. UK contracts total £600m, though a London police deal was blocked. Petitions with 250,000 signatures opposed its public sector ties. The firm states its tools follow client rules only.
