Abstract
The Welsh Perinatal Mortality Initiative carried out an extensive enquiry into perinatal deaths in Wales between 1984 and 1986 and their report was published by the Secretary of State for Wales in December 1986. One aspect examined was the obstetric anaesthetic service and a comprehensive questionnaire was sent to all obstetric units where Caesarean sections are carried out. One of the questions was on the use of protocols in obstetrics and the results presented are disappointing.