Jim Ratcliffe’s ‘UK colonised by immigrants’ claim branded ‘disgraceful’

Manchester United co-owner Jim Ratcliffe’s claim that the “UK has been colonised by immigrants” has been described as “disgraceful” by football’s leading anti-discrimination organisation.

The billionaire, who is founder and chairman of one of the world’s largest chemical companies, Ineos, said in an interview with Sky News that politicians needed to “do some difficult things with the UK to get it back on track”.

The 73-year-old also used the interview to defend “difficult” decisions taken at United since acquiring a stake in the club two years ago.

But it is his comments on immigration, which included the claim that the UK population has swelled by 12 million since 2020, that have drawn a strong reaction from Kick It Out, who said in a statement given to the Press Association: “Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s comments are disgraceful and deeply divisive at a time when football does so much to bring communities together.

“In addition to the inaccurate figures mentioned, it’s worth reminding him that Manchester United has a diverse fan base and plays in a city whose cultural history has been enriched by immigrants.

“This type of language and leadership has no place in English football, and we believe most fans will feel the same.”

Ratcliffe said in the interview with Sky News: “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.”

British prime minister Keir Starmer called the comments “offensive and wrong” and has called on Ratcliffe to apologise.

Manchester United Supporters Trust also voiced its concern about Ratcliffe’s claims on social media, saying “senior leadership should