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Sir Jim Ratcliffe's 'colonised by immigrants' remark triggers political row and FA scrutiny

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Sir Jim Ratcliffe's 'colonised by immigrants' remark triggers political row and FA scrutiny
Manchester United co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe has apologised for his "choice of language" after claiming the United Kingdom has been "colonised by immigrants," comments that prompted sharp criticism from Sir Keir Starmer, senior Labour figures and local leaders.

The INEOS founder made the remarks during an interview with Sky News, arguing that Britain faces economic pressures linked to welfare dependency and immigration levels.

His phrasing quickly ignited controversy across politics and football.

What Ratcliffe said

Speaking about the UK's economic challenges, Ratcliffe 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.

The population figures in context

However, official statistics from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) show different figures.

According to the ONS:
  • The UK population was around 67 million in mid-2020
  • It was approximately 70 million by mid-2024
  • The population stood at 58.9 million in 2000
The data contradicts Ratcliffe's suggestion that the population was 58 million as recently as 2020.

Starmer's response

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer condemned the language used.

A Downing Street spokesperson added that such comments risk "playing into the hands of those who want to divide our country."

Chancellor Rachel Reeves described the wording as "disgusting," whilst other Labour figures echoed concerns about the tone of the remarks rather than the broader policy debate.

Ratcliffe issues apology

Ratcliffe later sought to clarify his comments in a public statement.
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 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.
He emphasised that his remarks were made whilst discussing economic growth, skills and manufacturing at an industry summit.

Andy Burnham's criticism

Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham also strongly criticised Ratcliffe's framing.
These comments go against everything for which Manchester has traditionally stood: a place where people of all races, faiths and none have pulled together over centuries to build our city and our institutions, including Manchester United FC.

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, inflammatory and should be withdrawn.

Footballers who have arrived from all over the world to play in Greater Manchester have enhanced the life of our city-region, as have the many people working in Greater Manchester's NHS and other essential services and industries.

We appreciate their contribution as a city-region famous for the warmth of our welcome. If any criticism is needed, it should be directed towards those who have offered little contribution to our life here and have instead spent years siphoning wealth out of one of our proudest institutions.

FA monitoring the situation

Sources indicate that the Football Association (FA) is aware of Ratcliffe's comments and may assess whether they fall under FA Rule E3.1, which addresses conduct that could bring the game into disrepute.

Rule E3.1 requires participants to avoid "abusive, indecent or insulting words or behaviour," whilst Rule E3.2 treats references relating to nationality, race or ethnicity as aggravated breaches.

Any formal investigation would determine whether Ratcliffe's comments meet that threshold.

Immigration debate remains politically charged

The episode underscores the sensitivity surrounding immigration discourse in the UK, particularly when high-profile business and sports figures enter the conversation.

Whilst debates over migration policy, labour markets and public services remain central to political discussion, reactions to Ratcliffe's remarks illustrate how language choices can rapidly shift focus from policy substance to public perception.

For United, the controversy also raises broader questions about leadership, reputation and the intersection of football with national politics.

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