Contract decision sparks debate
London’s deputy mayor for policing and crime, Kaya Comer Schwartz, has defended her decision to stop a £25.3 million contract between the Metropolitan Police and US tech company Palantir. She said the decision was based on concerns about value for money and accountability.
“I make no apologies for making sure we have the right oversight over significant spending,” she said. “We must ensure contracts deliver value for Londoners.”
Concerns over procurement choice
The Mayor’s Office for Policing and Crime raised concerns about how the Met Police handled the procurement process. It said the force engaged seriously with only one supplier during the process. It also noted concerns about the company’s values and ethics, although those issues could not legally determine the final decision.
Palantir rejected the criticism. The company said its proposal offered strong value for money and supported ongoing policing needs. It also confirmed it was considering legal action to challenge the decision.
Impact on policing and possible job losses
Met Police Commissioner Sir Mark Rowley warned that the blocked deal could affect staffing plans. He said the force must make budget savings this year and next year, which may lead to difficult decisions affecting public services.
Conservative Assembly member Susan Hall criticised the decision. She warned it could lead to further cuts in frontline policing and questioned whether the deputy mayor would accept responsibility for the impact.
Oversight and unanswered questions
During the committee session, Liberal Democrat member Gareth Roberts asked how much detail the deputy mayor had seen about potential cutbacks. Comer Schwartz said she had not yet reviewed a full contingency plan. She added that discussions with the Met were still ongoing.
