Former Labour deputy leader Tom Watson has joined tech company Palantir in a senior role, announcing his appointment as senior vice president on Friday. This move follows his four-month leave of absence from the House of Lords. Palantir, a US-based firm, holds several important UK government contracts, including those with the NHS and the Ministry of Defence. The company has faced scrutiny over its use of data and artificial intelligence technologies. Watson described Palantir as "the most interesting company on the planet" and praised its work in supporting national security, law enforcement, and healthcare. He emphasized that Palantir helps Britain and its allies defend against threats, supports police in keeping citizens safe, and aids NHS staff in improving patient care. London is Palantir's largest international hub, employing over one in six of its global workforce. Watson's new position has sparked criticism, particularly over Palantir's contracts with the Israel Defence Forces and the US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Green Party MP Sian Berry accused Watson of being hired by Palantir to influence the Labour government and called it a "disgrace" that he still holds the Labour whip. She argued that Palantir's ties to ICE and the IDF make it unsuitable for involvement in public services like the NHS. Watson's role may create tensions with some senior Labour figures who are critical of Palantir. For example, Palantir is currently involved in a legal dispute with London Mayor Sadiq Khan’s office after he blocked a £50 million contract with the Metropolitan Police. Prime Minister Andy Burnham is under pressure from Labour MPs and unions to remove Palantir from government contracts. Watson was diagnosed with non-aggressive prostate cancer in March 2023 and was given the all-clear later that year. However, he revealed on his Substack blog in May that the cancer had returned earlier in the year. Initial tests suggested the recurrence had resolved, but he was scheduled for further medical checks later in the summer.