The performance, over the period of twelve years ended 1943, of the cable terminations in service on the British Grid system at voltages between 3.3 kV and 132 kV is reviewed, and the causes of breakdown are examined. Features of construction which have contributed to failure, and the measures adopted to secure improvement in service performance, are indicated. Consideration is given to the fundamental characteristics required of a termination, and to the test and other requirements embodied in the specifications of the Central Electricity Board. Recent types of termination are described, including 132-kV outdoor sealing ends for use with the latest types of mass-impregnated pressure cable. Directions in which design developments may be expected are indicated.