Abstract: A connecting apparatus for medical conduits including a valve body defining a first duct and having a connector for coupling to a first conduit. A valve is incorporated within the first duct and is a ball and spring type valve normally biased in closed position. An adaptor is releasably connectable to the body and has a female coupling for connection to a second conduit having a male coupling. A valve actuator is received within the adaptor and is arranged such that by connecting the adaptor to the valve body and then connecting the second conduit to the adaptor, the male coupling automatically moves the valve actuator towards the valve member thereby opening the valve against the action of the spring. When the adaptor is disconnected from the valve body, the valve member assumes a closed position in which an exposed surface portion of the spherical valve member is substantially flush with the end face of the valve body.