Restore Britain leader Rupert Lowe has drawn support from former Chelsea captain John Terry and ex-Millwall and Leeds United boss Dennis Wise over his contentious proposal to bar foreign nationals from accessing UK welfare benefits.

The endorsements from the two ex-footballers have sparked criticism online, with some questioning their stance. Lowe, a former chairman of Southampton FC, has had a turbulent history with the club, stepping down twice—once following their relegation in 2005 and again in 2009 when Southampton Leisure Holdings entered administration.

In recent years, the 68-year-old has shifted toward politics, becoming an outspoken figure. After leaving Nigel Farage’s Reform Party, he launched Restore Britain, a movement focused on stricter immigration controls, the deportation of illegal migrants, and what he describes as the preservation of British culture and Christian values.

Sharing his views on social media, Lowe outlined one of his key policies, arguing that foreign nationals should be prevented from claiming benefits. He also suggested removing migrants unable to financially sustain themselves, claiming such measures could save billions and allow for tax reductions benefiting working Britons.

Lowe said in a speech in the House of Commons that he posted online, "We should ban foreigners from claiming benefits, and remove migrants who are incapable of financially supporting themselves - use those many saved billions to slash tax for the British men and women keeping the economy running."

Terry appeared to strongly back the proposal, responding with a brief but emphatic endorsement. He wrote on the Restore Britain Instagram page, "100% yes."

Wise, went even further, offering an even stronger show of support in the comments, writing: "200%"

However, their backing prompted a wave of criticism from users on social media platform Instagram, particularly among the Residents of The Shade Borough. Several commenters challenged the narrative around migration and benefits, while others referenced past controversies.

One user wrote: “Most people claiming benefits are white British people, but sure it’s migrants that are the problem.”

Another commented: “John Terry vs the Ferdinand family still ain’t forgotten…”

A third added: “We all know how John Terry feels about POC, so no one’s surprised with his stance on this.”