Sir Jim Ratcliffe Expresses Regret Over Controversial Immigration Remarks
Manchester United co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe has issued a public apology after facing widespread criticism for stating that the United Kingdom has been 'colonised by immigrants' during a recent television interview. The billionaire businessman's comments have sparked significant political backlash and are now being formally reviewed by the Football Association to determine whether they have brought the sport into disrepute.
Political Leaders Condemn Ratcliffe's Language
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham have both strongly criticised Ratcliffe's choice of words, describing them as inflammatory and inappropriate. The remarks were made during a Sky News interview on Wednesday while Ratcliffe was attending the European Industry Summit in Antwerp, where he was discussing economic policy, job creation, and manufacturing challenges in the UK.
In a carefully worded statement released on Thursday, Ratcliffe expressed regret for any offence caused, saying: 'I am sorry that my choice of language has offended some people in the UK and Europe and caused concern, but it is important to raise the issue of controlled and well-managed immigration that supports economic growth.'
Football Association Launches Examination
The Press Association has confirmed that the Football Association will be examining Ratcliffe's comments to assess whether they have damaged the reputation of the game. As a prominent figure in English football through his ownership stake in Manchester United, Ratcliffe's public statements are subject to scrutiny under football governance regulations.
During his controversial Sky News appearance, Ratcliffe argued: 'You can't have an economy with nine million people on benefits and huge levels of immigrants coming in. I mean, the UK is being colonised. It's costing too much money. The UK has been colonised by immigrants.'
Ratcliffe Defends Immigration Discussion Intent
In his apology statement, Ratcliffe attempted to clarify his intentions, explaining that he was trying to highlight the need for balanced immigration policies that support economic development. He stated: 'My comments were made while answering questions about UK policy at the European Industry Summit in Antwerp, where I was discussing the importance of economic growth, jobs, skills and manufacturing in the UK.'
The industrialist further elaborated: 'My intention was to stress that governments must manage migration alongside investment in skills, industry and jobs so that long-term prosperity is shared by everyone. It is critical that we maintain an open debate on the challenges facing the UK.'
The controversy comes at a sensitive time for both immigration policy discussions and football governance, with Ratcliffe's dual roles as business leader and football club owner placing his comments under particular scrutiny from multiple sectors of British society.
