The issue here is really professional privilege. I would say that in all “civilized countries”, the lawyer has always had a very special status because of what it is; the solicitor-client relationship is extremely important. I realize that it could be very embarrassing, too, for accountants. It may require some adjustments for them, too. But I speak for the legal profession. The legal profession has always been described as a foundation of our system.
On March 19th, 2013. See this statement in context.