Conservative Central Office - Definition and Overview

Conservative Central Office (CCO) is the headquarters of the British Conservative Party, housing its central staff and committee members. The term is often used in reference to the staff themselves and the central control mechanisms of the Party.

The establishment of Conservative Central Office dates back to 1870, with the creation of professional support for the Party. Following election defeats in 1906 and 1910, in 1911 the post of Party Chairman was created to oversee the work of the Central Office.

Until 1958 CCO was based at Abbey House, Victoria Street, then moving to No. 32 Smith Square, Westminster. This was the scene of many televised historic moments in Conservative history from Margaret Thatcher's victory rallies to Iain Duncan Smith's resignation. CCO moved in 2004 to nearby 25 Victoria Street, London for more high-tech facilities.

As of December 2004, the Conservative Party's co-chairmen are Liam Fox MP and Lord Saatchi. The Director of Operations is Gavin Barwell.

• Conservative Central Office archives (http://www.bodley.ox.ac.uk/dept/scwmss/wmss/online/modern/cpa/cco/cco.html)

Example Usage of Conservative