[Getty Image] Sir Jim Ratcliffe faces criticism over immigration comments made at a European summit.
Sir Jim Ratcliffe, a billionaire businessman and minority owner of Manchester United, has apologised after comments on immigration sparked backlash across the UK.
Speaking at the European Industry Summit in Antwerp, Ratcliffe said the UK had been “colonised” by immigrants and linked migration to welfare spending. The remarks, made during a Sky News interview on Wednesday, drew sharp criticism from political leaders and football supporters. He also used figures later shown to be incorrect.
In a statement issued on Thursday and reported by BBC Sport, Ratcliffe say he regretted his choice of words and apologised for causing offence. He said debate on immigration and economic pressures must remain open.
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Prime Minister Keir Starmer called the comments “offensive and wrong” and urged Ratcliffe to apologise. Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham said the remarks conflicted with Manchester’s values of inclusion.
The Manchester United Supporters Trust said senior figures linked to the club should promote unity, not division.
Ratcliffe said his comments were intended to highlight the need for economic growth, skills development and investment in UK industry, alongside controlled migration.
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