Be welcomed back into the EU

how important the word sovereignty and integrity were in the internal debate in the United Kingdom. I feel like it is not my role to intervene.”

However, the Polish politician did expand on his feelings towards an independent Scotland – and his thoughts on how other member states may react.

Mr Tusk said: “Emotionally I have no doubt that everyone will be enthusiastic here in Brussels, and more generally in Europe.

“If you ask me about our emotions, you will witness I think always empathy.”

Despite his claims of countries welcoming Scotland in, Mr Tusk said there would still be a process of application for any country to re-enter the EU.

He said: “If something like, for example, the independence of Scotland happens, then we need a regular process.

“It would be a new process.” Speaking on the same show, Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab suggested other EU countries dealing with independence movements could be against the inclusion of Scotland in the EU.

He said: “Given the secessionist, separatist tendencies in Spain, in France, in Italy, I’m not sure European leaders, let alone here in the UK, would actually welcome that kind of language.”

In the 2016 Brexit referendum, 62% of Scottish voters voted to stay in the EU.

Mr Tusk’s comments come just days after the UK left the European Union and the First Minister announced plans to “ramp up” the campaign for independence.

SNP MP Alyn Smith said Mr Tusk’s comments reflect what EU officials have said in private “for years”.