Abstract: An apparatus for the making and breaking of a plug and socket connection within a hazardous environment by remote handling means includes at least one receiving bracket adapted to receive a positioning and retaining plate. The positioning and retaining plate has one of a plug and a socket fixed thereto in a predetermined orientation to permit making or breaking of a connection with the other of a plug and a socket. The at least one receiving bracket and the fixed plug or socket are movable in a direction parallel to the axis of the fixed plug or socket on slider means. The apparatus includes means for moving the at least one receiving bracket and the fixed plug or socket relative to the other of a plug and a socket which is fixed in a co-operating axial and rotational orientation thereto so as to make or break the connection. The at least one receiving bracket has means to permit the fixed plug or socket to be placed in or removed from the at least one receiving bracket by the remote handling means.