Rate constants for the reaction of carbonate radical with aniline and some parasubstituted anilines have been determined by the flash photolysis technique. Using σ+ para values the rate constants at pH 8.5 correlate very well with the Hammett equation yielding ρ= - 1. The carbonate radical oxidises aniline giving the anilino radical. The products so formed have been identified through studies under conditions of continuous irradiation. © 1984 Indian Academy of Sciences.