Ratcliffe says sorry his language ‘offended some people’ after criticism of immigration comments
Manchester United co-owner Jim Ratcliffe apologises after saying the UK had been “colonised by immigrants”
“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,” he says in a statement
Speaking to Sky News, external, the billionaire had suggested Keir Starmer was “too nice” to do “difficult things” to stabilise the country’s economy – watch his comments
The PM hit back, saying Britain was “a proud, tolerant and diverse country”, while Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham said they were “inaccurate, insulting and inflammatory”
The Manchester United Supporters Trust says “no fan should feel excluded from following or supporting the club because of their race, religion, nationality or background”
In the statement, Ratcliffe said, “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.”
