Gordon Ramsay said Brexit would be good for the restaurant industry as it will be a ‘kick up the a**’ to British workers.
The television chef accused Britain of becoming ‘lazy’ while those from abroad ‘work twice as hard for less money’.
He made the comments during an interview with the Radio Times in which he said a reduction immigration would create more opportunities.
He said the ‘level of influx of multi-national workers in this country has sort of confirmed how lazy as a nation we are – when individuals from across the seas are prepared to come and work twice as hard for less money’.
‘If anything it’s a big kick up the a** for the industry and it’s going to get back to the modern day apprenticeship,’ he added. ‘So not only do I welcome that change but I think it’s going to put a lot more emphasis on homegrown talent.’
Ramsay’s views will contrast those of his current rival Jamie Oliver, who is a vocal Remainer.
Ramsay’s views will contrast those of his current rival Jamie Oliver, who is a vocal Remainer
Ramsay accused Oliver of being too political, adding that ‘the only time he opens his mouth is when he’s got something to promote’.
He said: ‘It’s all very well to spout off now about sugar tax and supermarkets. None of that was spoken about when he was label-slapping with Sainsbury’s for ten years.
‘And no disrespect, but we’re chefs, not politicians. When you breathe that stuff down the public’s throat and say, “I’m leaving if we have Brexit”, then, I’m sorry, the door stands open.’
