The presumption of innocence

Sir, – In his article "Inquiry leaks are abuse of process and human dignity" (Opinion & Analysis, November 17th), Fintan O'Toole writes, "the accusation of child abuse is not mud being thrown, it's acid". This is an accurate and evocative image.

The need to maintain, in practice and fact, the unconditional presumption of innocence is a fundamental feature of a civilised society. The alternative does not bear thinking about. – Yours, etc,

CHRISTIAN MORRIS,

Howth,

Dublin 13.