Sir Jim Ratcliffe
Sir Jim Ratcliffe
Sir Jim Ratcliffe has issued an apology in the face of his bizarre rant on immigration. The co-owner controversially claimed that the UK had been
And he has since apologised. A statement from read: "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.
"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.
"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."
MAKE THE MIRROR YOUR FIRST CHOICE! or add us as Preferred Source in your Google search settings
[
Piers Morgan brands Sir Jim Ratcliffe 'a hypocrite' as he wades in on immigration rant](https://www.mirror.co.uk/3am/celebrity-news/piers-morgan-brands-sir-jim-36708875)
Ratcliffe's apology comes in the aftermath of huge backlash at his original comments. The INEOS founder said: "You can't have an economy with nine million people on benefits and huge levels of immigrants coming in. I mean, the UK has been colonised. It's costing too much money.
"The UK has been colonised by immigrants, really, hasn't it? I mean, the population of the UK was 58 million in 2020, now it's 70 million. That's 12 million people."
was among those to call out Ratcliffe for his comments. Taking to social media, he said: "Offensive and wrong. Britain is a proud, tolerant and diverse country. Jim Ratcliffe should apologise."
Meanwhile, Greater Manchester mayor said in response: “These comments go against everything for which Manchester has traditionally stood: a place where people of all races and faiths have pulled together over centuries to build our city and our institutions – including Manchester United FC.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer is among those to have called out Ratcliffe's comments
“Calling for curbs on levels of immigration is one thing, portraying those who come here as a hostile invading force is quite another. It is inaccurate, insulting and inflammatory and should be withdrawn.
“Footballers who have arrived from all over the to play in Greater Manchester have enhanced the life of our city region, as have the many people working in Greater Manchester’s and other essential services and industries. We appreciate their contribution as a city region famous for the warmth of our welcome.”
Ratcliffe could potentially face over his comments. While English football's governing body have yet to launch a formal investigation, they are reviewing his remarks and could look into the possibility of Ratcliffe potentially calling the game into disrespute.
and receive your daily dose of content. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you're curious, you can read our