Devendra Kumar
Frank Hester, the 58-year-old founder of health tech company The Phoenix Partnership (TPP), is under fire after allegedly making comments about Diane Abbott, Britain’s longest-serving black MP. Despite claiming the remarks were not about her gender or skin color, Hester’s words have sparked widespread outrage and condemnation. The comments, reportedly made in 2019, have been branded racist by Labour and the Liberal Democrats, who are calling for the Conservative Party to return the £10 million donation Hester made to the party last year.
Hester’s background is marked by a mix of humility and success, with a background in computer science and a career in software engineering. After training as a priest, he founded TPP in 1997, and the company’s core product, SystmOne, allows digital medical records to be shared and is used in more than 2,600 GP practices and a third of acute mental health trusts. Despite not denying making the remarks, Hester has claimed they are unrelated to Abbott’s gender or skin color. However, many have questioned the timing of his donation and the Conservative Party’s handling of the situation.
As the controversy surrounding Hester’s comments continues to unfold, many have questioned the lack of accountability within the party. The scandal has also raised concerns about racism and the lack of transparency in the party’s dealings. The fallout has led to increased scrutiny over Hester’s business dealings and the country’s healthcare system, which relies heavily on his company’s technology. Despite the backlash, neither Hester nor the party has announced any plans to return the funds. The lack of transparency and accountability has led to widespread concern, and many are calling for action to address the issue.
Hester’s company, TPP, has won numerous contracts, including a £400 million deal with the NHS and prison services, and has been estimated to be worth £1 billion. He recorded a £40 million profit before tax in the year to March 2023 and netted a salary of £510,000. His philanthropic efforts include a £5 million donation to the Conservative Party’s grassroots campaign, as well as a personal gift of £16,000 for a helicopter ride to Prime Minister Rishi Sunak. The controversy surrounding Hester’s comments has thrust him into the spotlight, and many are now scrutinizing his business dealings and the country’s healthcare system.