Sir Jim Ratcliffe Alleges UK 'Colonised' by Immigrants in Sky News Interview
In a provocative interview with Sky News economics editor Ed Conway, Sir Jim Ratcliffe, the billionaire founder of INEOS and co-owner of Manchester United, has declared that the United Kingdom has been 'colonised' by immigrants. Speaking on the sidelines of the European Industry Summit in Antwerp, Ratcliffe argued that this influx is draining state resources and exacerbating profound political, social, and economic challenges.
Immigration and Economic Strain Highlighted
Ratcliffe pointed to a sharp population increase, noting that the UK's population has grown from approximately 58 million in 2000 to an estimated 70 million in 2024, according to Office for National Statistics data. He emphasized, '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.' This statement underscores his view that immigration is placing unsustainable pressure on public finances and welfare systems.
Criticism of Political Leadership and Reform Meeting
The chemicals magnate, who resides in Monaco, expressed doubts about Prime Minister Keir Starmer's ability to address these issues effectively. Ratcliffe remarked, 'I don't know whether it's just the apparatus that hasn't allowed Keir to do it or he's maybe too nice. Keir is a nice man, but it's a tough job, and I think you have to do some difficult things with the UK to get it back on track.' He also revealed a recent meeting with Reform leader Nigel Farage, describing him as 'an intelligent man with good intentions,' but drew parallels to Starmer, suggesting both may lack the willingness to make unpopular decisions.
Parallels Drawn to Manchester United Management
Drawing from his experience at Manchester United, Ratcliffe likened the challenges of national governance to those in football club management. He stated, 'I've seen quite a bit of this at the football club. If you do difficult things, which we felt that we had to do at Manchester United, you become very unpopular for a while. But for the better, in my view.' He urged that tackling major issues like immigration and benefit dependency requires courage and potentially unpopular actions to achieve long-term improvements.
Context of European Industry Summit
The interview took place during the European Industry Summit, where leaders from major economies, including France's Emmanuel Macron and Germany's Friedrich Merz, convened with industrialists to discuss economic strategies. Ratcliffe warned of 'unsurvivable conditions' in the European chemicals sector, citing recent closures as indicative of broader industrial challenges. This backdrop highlights the interconnected nature of economic pressures and immigration debates in the UK and across Europe.
