Days before Pope Benedict XVI steps down, the Vatican is battling rumours his decision was triggered by the results of an inquiry into the Vati-leaks scandal.
The secret report was compiled by a committee of three cardinals, who questioned dozens of Vatican officials as part of the investigation.
News reports suggest their findings contained allegations of corruption and of blackmail attempts against gay Vatican clergymen, as well as favouritism based on gay relationships.
The Vatican has declined to comment on the reports.