The former MP, Martin Bell, told the BBC he thought the separation would provide Ms Jowell with "some degree of protection" from the political furore.

BBC: NEWS | UK | UK Politics | Tessa Jowell splits from husband

When Greene's wife read the story to their young son, the boy cried at the thought of the permanent separation.

CNN: My Father's Day wish: Curious children

The Progressive Unionist Party's prisoners spokesman, William Smyth, said he thought inmates would look at separation as a logical decision.

BBC: Maghaberry jail