The role of the Trial Steering Committee (TSC) is to provide the overall supervision of the trial. The TSC includes members who are independent of the investigators, their employing organisations, funders and sponsors. The TSC monitors trial progress and conduct and advises on scientific credibility. The TSC may act upon the recommendations of the Data Monitoring Committee (DMC)  and ultimately carries the responsibility for deciding whether a trial needs to be stopped on grounds of safety or efficacy.