Manchester United co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe apologises for saying UK ‘colonised by immigrants’

LONDON – Manchester United co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe has been forced to apologise for what he says was his “choice of language” after claiming the UK had been “colonised by immigrants”.

The backlash has been vicious across the board with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer leading the charge and telling Ratcliffe his remarks were “offensive and wrong”.

The PM called on the INEOS founder to apologise while describing the UK as a “proud, tolerant and diverse country”.

Ratcliffe’s own club Manchester United have said they “pride” themselves “on being an inclusive and welcoming club”.

“Our diverse group of players, staff and global community of supporters, reflect the history and heritage of Manchester; a city that anyone can call home.

“Since launching All Red All Equal in 2016, we have embedded equality, diversity and inclusion into everything we do.”

“We remain deeply committed to the principles and spirit of that campaign. They are reflected in our policies but also in our culture and are reinforced by our holding of the Premier League’s Advanced Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Standard.

“We will continue to represent our people, our city and our fans with purpose and pride.”