Reduction of 7-tridecanone and 1-phenyl-1-hexanone by 2-propanol at 573-673 K in the presence of MgO has been studied. Acidic as well as strong and weak basic sites of MgO surface have been blocked in the reaction of the oxide with triethylamine, phenol or benzoic acid (1000 mu mol/g of catalyst), respectively. Retention of activity of MgO treated with triethylamine or phenol in ketones reduction by 2-propanol has been observed. Only residual activity of MgO poisoned by benzoic acid has been noted. The exclusive participation of moderate basic centers of MgO in catalytic reduction of ketones by 2-propanol has been ascertained.