the nearest approach yet to the classical method of deciding such an issue as the change of one disease state to another – the randomised controlled trial. It has not been randomised and it is not well controlled, but it has at least been prospective." This time, Green reported that 10 cases had apparently progressed to invasion but that only 2 had "no clinical or histologic doubt." [Only one of the patients was under age 35.] He concluded that the present series "offers little proof of the progression hypothesis." Green published nothing else. A later and separate re-evaluation of the invasive potential of CIS, based on a review of Green's patients' files, was published by McIndoe et al, with very different findings. Inquiry District Court Judge Silvia Cartwright was appointed by warrant dated 10 June 1987 as a Committee of Inquiry to inquire into the treatment of cervical cancer at the National Women's Hospital and other matters. Terms of Reference The Terms of Reference for the Inquiry were to investigate (as alleged in the Metro Article): Whether there was a failure adequately to treat cervical carcinoma in situ at the NWH, and if so, the reasons for that failure and the period for which that failure existed; Whether a research programme into the natural history of CIS of the genital tract was conducted at NWH and, if so: Whether it was approved before being instituted or while it was underway; Whether patients were aware at any stage that they were participants in a research programme; Whether any expressions of concern about the programme were considered and investigated at the time and if so, by whom. Whether there was a need to contact women involved with a view to providing further advice or treatment to them; Whether the National Women's Hospital's procedures for approval of research and/or treatment and its surveillance were adequate, in particular whether they ensure that the rights of patients are protected; What steps, if any, need to be taken to improve the protection of patients in respect of whom research and/or treatment is conducted; Whether the patients at the National Women's Hospital were properly informed of the treatment and options available to them, and, if not, the steps needed to see that they are; The training given to medical students and medical practitioners regarding the proper detection and treatment of cervical cancer and pre-cancerous conditions of the