The Metropolitan Police Service (MPS) faces a renewed controversy over its use of AI-powered technology from US firm Palantir, after being granted a 12-month extension to continue utilising the system despite concerns raised by London's Mayor Sadiq Khan. The move comes weeks after Khan intervened to block a proposed £50 million contract with Palantir due to significant breaches of procurement regulations.
The MPS has maintained that the technology, known as the Customer Service Engine (CSE), is essential in addressing misconduct and boosting public confidence. Assistant Commissioner Rachel Williams stressed that the system allows for the consolidation of lawfully held data to proactively identify potential concerns regarding standards, welfare, or organisational culture. This proactive approach is seen as a significant improvement over the traditional reactive model, where cases are often only pursued following complaints from colleagues or victims.
Initial pilot results have been promising, with approximately 45,000 individuals across the MPS being brought under scrutiny. The technology has enabled the force to shift towards a more robust discovery-based model, allowing for earlier intervention and preventing potential misconduct. Commissioner Mark Rowley highlighted the limitations of existing technology in gaining crucial insights and welcomed the collaboration with Palantir.
However, Khan's decision to block the original contract was met with resistance from Palantir, who signalled their intention to challenge the move in court through a letter to MOPAC. The temporary extension granted by the Mayor will allow the MPS to maintain its current operational capabilities while a new procurement process is undertaken to select a long-term supplier.
A spokesperson for Khan confirmed that a new open procurement process has been mandated, with the Deputy Mayor insisting that the contract should be awarded through a competitive tender. The spokesperson acknowledged the immediate needs of the MPS and permitted an extension to retain existing capabilities during this procurement phase.