Candour (magazine)

Lore & Background

Candour was founded by A. K. Chesterton after the takeover of the journal Truth by Staples Press in 1953, which adopted a mainstream Conservative editorial policy and dropped openly anti-Jewish content. Chesterton resigned as deputy editor and published a pamphlet titled 'Truth has been murdered,' seeking backing for a new journal. He obtained financial support from R. K. Jeffery, a Chilean-based English millionaire, and the first edition appeared on 30 October 1953. The magazine was printed by Clair Press, operated by Tony Gittens of The Britons.

Under Chesterton, Candour displayed a 'stolidly conservative' stance, and he feared that open racial hatred would tarnish its reputation, especially after the Notting Hill riots of 1958. The magazine was the periodical of the League of Empire Loyalists, founded in October 1954, and its readership extended to Australia, New Zealand, and Rhodesia. After Chesterton's death in 1973, Rosine de Bounevialle edited the magazine until her death in 1999, after which Colin Todd became editor-in-chief, with an associated website.

Since 1996, the magazine's owning trust has aimed to promote the principles of A. K. Chesterton, including combating 'International Finance' and promoting 'National Sovereignty of the British World.' As of April 2025, the latest issue is no. 888, published in February/March 2025, and the magazine operates mainly by subscription, with some issues out of stock.

Reader's Guide

Candour holds significance as a persistent voice in British far-right politics, evolving from a weekly publication in the 1950s to an irregular periodical in the 21st century. Its founding by A. K. Chesterton, a former deputy editor of Truth, reflects a split from mainstream conservatism over anti-Jewish content and imperial policy. The magazine's association with the League of Empire Loyalists and its focus on opposing the 'Dollar Empire' and later the 'coloured invasion' illustrate its role in post-war British nationalism. Chesterton's efforts to maintain a respectable image, despite accusations of fascist tendencies, highlight tensions within far-right movements. After his death, the magazine continued under Rosine de Bounevialle and later Colin Todd, adapting to digital formats while retaining its core ideology. Its legacy lies in its long-term, if intermittent, publication and its influence on British imperialist and anti-globalist thought.

Did You Know?

• Candour was founded as the successor to the journal Truth after its takeover by Staples Press in 1953.
• The magazine's first issue denounced the United States as the 'Dollar Empire' and lamented the disintegration of the British Empire.
• A. K. Chesterton feared that open racial hatred would tarnish Candour's reputation after the Notting Hill riots of 1958.
• As of April 2025, the latest issue of Candour is number 888, published in February/March 2025.