UK Prime Minister Condemns Manchester United Owner's Immigration Comments
Prime Minister Keir Starmer has issued a strong rebuke to Manchester United co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe, describing his recent comments about immigration as "offensive and wrong" and calling for a public apology. The controversy erupted after Sir Jim claimed during a Sky News interview that the United Kingdom has been "colonised by immigrants" and suggested the current government lacks the resolve to address economic challenges.
Ratcliffe's Controversial Statements
Speaking with Sky News economic editor Ed Conway at the European Industry Summit in Antwerp, the billionaire INEOS founder argued that high immigration levels combined with what he described as nine million people on benefits were placing unsustainable strain on the country. "You can't have an economy with nine million people on benefits and huge levels of immigrants coming in," Sir Jim stated. "The UK has been colonised. It's costing too much money."
He further claimed the UK population had surged from 58 million in 2020 to 70 million—a 12 million increase. However, Office for National Statistics figures contradict this, estimating the population was approximately 66.7 million in mid-2020 and 69.4 million in mid-2025. The population was last near 58 million around the year 2000.
Political and Public Backlash
Prime Minister Starmer responded forcefully, asserting that Britain is "a proud, tolerant and diverse country" and urging Sir Jim to retract his remarks. A Downing Street spokesperson added that such language "plays into the hands of those who want to divide our country."
The comments have drawn widespread condemnation from various quarters:
- The Manchester United Supporters Trust emphasized that no supporter should feel excluded due to race, religion, or nationality, stating leadership comments should unite rather than divide.
- The Manchester United Muslim Supporters Club noted the term "colonised" echoes language often associated with far-right narratives.
- Anti-racism charity Kick It Out described the remarks as "disgraceful and deeply divisive."
Ratcliffe's Broader Context and Background
During the same interview, Sir Jim compared governing the country to his stewardship of Manchester United, suggesting leaders must sometimes make unpopular decisions to address major issues. He referenced difficult choices he has implemented at the football club since acquiring a 27.7% stake in 2024, including job cuts and management changes.
Sir Jim also commented on Reform UK leader Nigel Farage, describing him as an "intelligent man" with "good intentions," while noting similar sentiments were once expressed about Sir Keir. He reiterated that tackling immigration and welfare dependency requires political courage.
According to the Sunday Times Rich List, Sir Jim ranks among the UK's wealthiest individuals. Notably, he relocated to Monaco in 2020—a jurisdiction without personal income or capital gains taxes—adding another layer to the ongoing debate about his perspectives on UK economic matters.
