Tory Challenge was first published in July 1947, and succeeded The Onlooker as the main Conservative Party newsletter. It was published monthly by Conservative Central Office, under the editor-in-chief E.D. O'Brien. Its first editorial states that it was, ‘Open to distinguished writers who bear no party label. Tory Challenge is not intended merely as a “house organ” – and some of our more enthusiastic followers may be disappointed if they expect it to be one. It is intended as a modern magazine supporting a great contemporary political movement.’