Manchester United co owner Jim Ratcliffe issues apology for wording on immigration
Jim Ratcliffe, co owner of Manchester United, expressed regret on Thursday over his selection of words following his statement that immigrants have colonised the UK.
The wealthy entrepreneur, who established and leads the Ineos chemicals firm, voiced these views during a TV discussion where he argued that substantial immigration into the UK has damaged the economy.
After receiving demands for an apology, including one from Prime Minister Keir Starmer, the 73 year old remarked: "I regret that my wording has upset certain individuals in the UK and Europe and sparked worry, yet it remains vital to address the topic of regulated and effectively handled immigration that aids economic expansion.
"Those statements occurred as I responded to queries on UK policies at the European Industry Summit in Antwerp, during which I highlighted the significance of economic development, employment, expertise and manufacturing within the UK."
He continued: "My goal was to emphasise that authorities need to oversee migration in conjunction with funding for skills, industry and jobs to ensure enduring prosperity benefits all.
"It is essential to sustain an open conversation regarding the difficulties confronting the UK."
Inflammatory and divisive
A representative for Starmer responded by noting: "The Prime Minister requested an apology, which has now been given, and it is entirely appropriate that Jim Ratcliffe has expressed regret for that wording."
When questioned if Ratcliffe's apology was sufficient, the representative stated: "It falls to Mr Ratcliffe to elaborate on his apology. That is not my role."
He further noted: "Naturally, we support a thorough discussion on immigration, but the Prime Minister advocates for a Britain designed for everyone, and views those remarks as inflammatory and divisive."
In his Wednesday interview with Sky News, Ratcliffe commented: "An economy cannot function with nine million individuals on benefits alongside vast numbers of immigrants arriving. The UK is experiencing colonisation. It is too expensive. Immigrants have colonised the UK."
Ratcliffe's statements might result in a potential disciplinary action for "bringing the game into disrepute" from the Football Association, which governs the sport in England.
Throughout the Sky discussion, Ratcliffe, who mentioned that his "unpopular" choices at Old Trafford are starting to show positive results, referenced incorrect data claiming the UK population stood at 58 million in 2020 and has risen to "70 million" now.
According to population figures from the Office for National Statistics, the nations population actually reached 67 million in mid 2020 and approached 70 million by mid 2024.
Shortly afterwards, Starmer called on Ratcliffe to apologise for the "offensive and incorrect" statements, while Kick it Out, an organisation in the UK working to combat racism in football, issued a firm response on Thursday to the "disgraceful and profoundly divisive" comments.
"Beyond the mistaken numbers cited, it is useful to recall that Manchester United boasts a varied supporter community and competes in a city whose cultural heritage has been enhanced by immigrants," Kick It Out declared in its release.
"Such wording and direction have no role in English football, and we expect the majority of supporters to share this sentiment."
Numerous groups representing United fans indeed condemned the remarks, as did Andy Burnham, mayor of Greater Manchester, who indicated that advocating for restrictions on immigration is "one matter", but depicting newcomers to Britain "as a hostile invading force is something else entirely".