A catalytic system consisting of sodium tungstate and methyltrioctylammonium hydrogensulfate effects oxidation of simple secondary alcohols to ketones using 3—30% H2O2 without any organic solvents. The oxidation can be conducted under entirely halide-free, mildly acidic conditions. A combination of tungstic acid and an appropriate quaternary ammoniumsalt also effects the alcohol dehydrogenation. The