Sir Jim Ratcliffe is facing backlash following his controversial remarks suggesting the UK has been “colonised by immigrants.” The Manchester United part-owner criticized the influx of immigrants and the number of people on benefits in the UK during a statement on Wednesday. Ranked as the seventh wealthiest individual in Britain by the Sunday Times rich list, Ratcliffe has an estimated fortune of £17 billion.
Various leaders condemned his comments, with the Prime Minister labeling them as “offensive,” while Andy Burnham called them “inaccurate, insulting, and inflammatory.” Kick It Out, football’s anti-discrimination body, also denounced his remarks as “disgraceful.”
In response to Ratcliffe’s claims, Burnham highlighted the positive contributions immigrants, including footballers and NHS workers, have made to Greater Manchester. He emphasized that diversity enriches the city and that criticism should be directed towards those who do not positively contribute.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer demanded an apology from Ratcliffe, describing his comments as offensive and inaccurate. Kick It Out echoed similar sentiments, stating that such divisive language has no place in English football and that most fans would disapprove of Ratcliffe’s remarks.
The controversy surrounding Ratcliffe’s statements has sparked widespread criticism and calls for accountability within the community.
