My letter pointed out that the Government’s own heritage watchdog (Historic England) had highlighted the historic importance of the gaol and the council’s view that the site should be turned into an arts and heritage hub.

In her reply, Prisons Minister, Lucy Frazer, MP, QC, told me that these points had been noted and her letter also seemed to acknowledge the historical importance of the links to Oscar Wilde.

However, there was no indication of a change of policy and the letter seemed to show that the Government wants to continue with its current approach of trying to sell the site to the highest bidder.

I believe this is a small step in the right direction and I will continue to press for the Government to reconsider its approach.