The former leader will return to the country in time for the transfer of power from the US-led coalition to a new Iraqi government on 30 June.

US officials have been holding Saddam at a secret location since his capture in Iraq in December last year.

It's thought his war crimes trial could start at the beginning of next year.

Saddam will be returned to Iraq with around 100 other suspects, according to the man in charge of setting up the trials.

'Chemical Ali'