In a recent interview, Sir Jim Ratcliffe, the billionaire co-owner of Manchester United, made headlines by asserting that the UK had been 'colonised by immigrants', a statement that has sparked widespread controversy and backlash. Ratcliffe's comments, which he elaborated during a Sky News segment, suggested that immigration was financially burdensome and implied a negative connotation about the immigrant community in the UK. This prompted immediate criticism from various public figures, including Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer, who labeled Ratcliffe's remarks as 'offensive and wrong'.

England rugby captain Maro Itoje responded to Ratcliffe's statements by calling them 'ridiculous' and expressing concerns over the phrasing and accuracy of his comments. Itoje's condemnation adds a prominent voice from the sports community to the debate surrounding immigration in the UK, showcasing how public figures from various fields can influence public discourse. He emphasized that immigration is an integral part of the UK, contributing positively to the nation's culture and economy.

While Ratcliffe has since apologized for 'offending some people' with his choice of words, the fallout from his comments continues to stir discussions on immigration, national identity, and the responsibilities of public figures in shaping narratives. This incident highlights the sensitive nature of discussions about immigration in the UK, particularly in an era where such topics are often at the forefront of political and social debates, urging a deeper examination of how these narratives are constructed and the implications they carry for society.