The policy of bishops automatically reporting any anonymous accusations of child abuse against priests to the police authorities was roundly condemned by the leader of the priests' association, who said the practice would be "unconscionable" and much resisted if applied to teachers, lawyers, police or any other professional group.

Once again we see the harm done to the clergy by the abuse of children by clergy.  The benefit of the doubt should always rest with the clergy, and the civil authorities should not get involved unless the Bishop determines they should because the abuse actually happened, reporting will not harm the reputation of the Church, and the victim cannot be convinced to keep quiet for the Good of the Church.