I have today laid before Parliament a Ministry of Defence departmental minute describing a gifting of Land Rovers that the UK intends to make to the Government of Bulgaria.

This gift meets a specific Bulgarian request for assistance to help patrol its borders.

The departmental minute describes a gift of 40 Land Rovers that are vitally needed and will provide immediate benefits. The gift comprises 40 Defender Tithonus Land Rovers totalling £443,000 including transportation by the civilian contractor. The cost will be borne by the Conflict Stability and Security Fund.

Subject to completion of the departmental minute process, delivery is expected to commence in May 2016.

[HCWS581]