London: Palantir Technologies has accused London Mayor Sadiq Khan of 'putting politics above public safety' after he blocked a proposed £50 million ($67 million) contract with the Metropolitan Police. The deal would have allowed the force to employ Palantir's artificial intelligence software to analyze criminal intelligence and support investigations.

According to Anadolu Agency, City Hall stated that the procurement process contained a 'clear and serious breach' because rival companies were not given the opportunity to bid. Palantir's UK and Europe chief, Louis Mosley, criticized the decision in an interview with Times Radio, emphasizing the importance of the technology for public safety. Mosley argued, "What Londoners value is not being mugged, not being raped by a serving police officer," suggesting that the rejection of the technology could adversely affect public safety.

The comments sparked backlash from Labour MP Stella Creasy, who expressed that Mosley 'should be ashamed of himself' for using concerns about misconduct within the Metropolitan Police to defend the company. Palantir, co-founded by billionaire Peter Thiel, has faced criticism over its collaborations with the Israeli military and its involvement in the Trump administration's immigration enforcement policies.

Khan has previously remarked that Londoners desire public funds to be spent with companies that 'share the values of our city.' The Metropolitan Police described the mayor's decision as 'disappointing,' cautioning that the absence of new technology could lead to reductions in officer numbers.