Scottish independence: Osborne implores Scots 'stay within our family of nations'

Chancellor George Osborne has referred to currency as the key issue in the referendum on Scottish independence: "At the very heart of this choice is the pound in your pocket. Why? Because the currency we use is about so much more than notes and coins. It is about the value of our savings, the power to purchase the everyday things we need and how we make the wheels of trade and commerce turn."

Speaking in Edinburgh, Mr Osborne went on: "I want Scotland to keep the pound and the economic security that it brings and I hope passionately that the people of Scotland who make such an important contribution to life on these islands choose to stay within our family of nations here in the United Kingdom."

Deputy First Minister Nicola Sturgeon had earlier referred to the UK government's impending statement as "bullying" Scotland.