Today’s COVID-19 data.

NHS England has awarded a significant data contract to Palantir, a US tech company co-founded by entrepreneur Peter Thiel. This decision has sparked controversy, considering Thiel’s critical stance on the NHS and raised questions about data security and transparency.

Environment Secretary Steve Barclay received a £3,000 donation from climate change sceptic Sir Michael Hintze, raising concerns about Barclay’s stance on environmental issues and potential conflicts of interest, prompting scrutiny of the government’s commitment to environmental goals.

A firm linked to a major Conservative Party donor received £546,000 in PPE storage contracts from the Department of Health and Social Care. The timing of these contracts and donations raises concerns about potential influence and transparency in contract allocation.

The ZOE Health Study team has faced challenges maintaining accurate COVID-19 data due to declining app contributors. In response, they’ve made the decision to suspend live COVID-19 reporting.

The US Government is set to reintroduce a free COVID-19 home testing programme next week. This initiative acknowledges the ongoing threat of COVID-19 variants. After a period where free testing became scarce, the move aims to provide accessible testing options once again.

The Department of Health and Social Care has made undisclosed payments totalling £137 million to a company owned by healthcare tech magnate Frank Hester, who donated £5 million to the Conservative Party.