Although the Iraqi security forces are being equipped through a programme organised by the United States, the equipment could help relieve the security burden on British troops in Iraq, the ministry of defence said.

"There could be delays in fulfilling the UK strategic objective of hastening the capability and capacity of the Iraqi police and border guard services to provide security in Iraq," it said in a written statement.

"Accelerating the equipment programme and gifting of this equipment will help our own forces to fulfil their task, enhance wider conflict resolution efforts and facilitate our ultimate withdrawal," the statement said.

The gift will include 3,200 AK47 assault rifles, two million rounds of ammunition and 4,200 sets of public order equipment including riot shields, visor helmets, leather gloves, shin and knee protectors, flame retardant overalls and batons.