Greg Dyke is expected to be critical of the Hutton report and the government

The book is expected to be critical of Lord Hutton's report into the death of government scientist David Kelly.

It is also expected to elaborate on Mr Dyke's opinion of the relationship between the government and the BBC.

Mr Dyke's tale of his four years at the BBC helm, plus recent events, will be "controversial," his publisher said.

The book will be published in September by HarperCollins.

"This is a terrific acquisition for us," HarperCollins chief executive Victoria Barnsley said.

BBC resignations

"I have huge admiration for the way Greg Dyke has transformed the BBC over the past four years and his account of this period will undoubtedly be fascinating and controversial."

The Hutton report led to the resignation of chairman Gavyn Davies and journalist Andrew Gilligan after his report on the government's Iraq dossier was said to be unfounded.

The BBC's editorial system and management were also criticised by Lord Hutton.

Since resigning, Mr Dyke has said the governors forced him to quit and were considering leaving themselves, such was the stinging criticism levelled at them by the report.

BBC correspondent Nick Higham says Mr Dyke's uncharitable views of the government's role could make uncomfortable reading for No 10.