Are American Tech Billionaires Threatening British Democracy?
4/29/202654 min
Given Palantir’s controversial manifesto – described by some as having “techno-fascist” tendencies – why is the UK Government expanding its work with the company? Why has the Foreign Office closed its international humanitarian law unit, and what does this say about the UK's commitment to international law? Is the government doing enough to address mental health issues, particularly among young people and Gen Z?
Join Rory and Alastair as they answer all these questions and more in this week's edition of Question Time.
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First 90 secondsAlastair Campbell· Host0:00
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Rory Stewart· Host0:11
A lot of people feel very, very angry about a US company connected to defense and the CIA getting their hands on British data. Would Palantir be prepared to set up an independent European subsidiary which couldn't be instructed by the White House suddenly to switch off all access?
Alastair Campbell· Host0:31
Why is a company publishing a manifesto argues it's a moral duty for tech firms to build weapons?
Rory Stewart· Host0:38
Carp, he's somebody who believes that the world is out to get him and out to get the West.
Alastair Campbell· Host0:45
I think the public feel very, very scared that guys like this are right at the heart of the wars in the Middle East, right at the heart of Ukraine. Are these the people that now have not just economic power, but are developing military power as well? And isn't, isn't that a bit scary? This episode is brought to you by Fuse Energy.
Rory Stewart· Host1:06
Energy policy rarely stays in Westminster for long. Usually arrives with a bill. And from the first of April, seventy-five percent of renewables obligation costs will come off electricity bills and move into general taxation.
Alastair Campbell· Host1:21
So if bills are meant to fall from April, why would anyone bother switching?
Rory Stewart· Host1:25
Because policy sets the floor. The saving itself is automatic.