European Commissioner Jose Manuel Barroso speaking on the same BBC tv Andrew Marr show earlier

We have seen Spain has been opposing even the recognition of Kosovo, for instance. So it is to some extent a similar case because it’s a new country and so I believe it’s going to be extremely difficult, if not impossible, a new member state coming out of our countries getting the agreement of the others.”

However, Mr Barroso made clear that it was up to the people of Scotland to decide their future, and he said he did not want to interfere in that process.

Something more for the Scottish people to consider after this week’s declaration by UK Chancellor George Osbornethat they will not be able to keep the pound should they break away. A view shared by BOE governor Carney.

More from from the interview here

In a thinly disguised wearning shot across the bows he also stressed the importance for PM Cameron to consider very carefully the UK’s position on immigration and free movement of labour in his own EU re-negotiations given the potential UK referendum on membership in 2017.

More on Iplayer here