Peter Hitchens: The Voice of British Conservative Commentary in 2025

Who is Peter Hitchens?

Peter Jonathan Hitchens (born 28 October 1951) is an English conservative author, broadcaster, journalist, and commentator. He writes for The Mail on Sunday and was a foreign correspondent reporting from both Moscow and Washington, D.C. Over his distinguished career, Hitchens has established himself as one of Britain’s most provocative and outspoken voices on political and social issues.

A Distinguished Career in Journalism

Hitchens’ journey in journalism began in the local press before joining the Daily Express in 1977. A regular on British radio and television, Hitchens has been on Question Time, Any Questions?, This Week, The Daily Politics, and The Big Questions. His compelling style earned him recognition, with Columnist of the Year, British Press Awards in 2005 and the Orwell Prize in 2010 among his accolades.

Recent Commentary and Controversies

In 2025, Hitchens continues to stir debate with his characteristically forthright opinions. Political commentator Peter Hitchens has hit out at calls for conscription, saying the suggestion is made only by those keen to see a “never-ending war”. According to Hitchens, this idea is ‘fanciful’ and the idea more soldiers are required to deal with the threat is warmongering. His views on British politics remain uncompromising, particularly regarding what he sees as the erosion of traditional British values and institutions.

Literary Contributions

Hitchens has authored several books critiquing the erosion of British institutions and values, including The Abolition of Britain (1999), which criticises the social and constitutional revolution under New Labour, as well as The Rage Against God (2010) and The War We Never Fought (2012). These works cement his reputation as a serious thinker on conservative philosophy and British identity.

Significance for British Political Discourse

Whether one agrees with his positions or not, Peter Hitchens remains a significant figure in British journalism. Hitchens describes himself as a Burkean conservative, a social democrat and more recently, a British Gaullist. His continued presence in The Mail on Sunday and his willingness to challenge mainstream narratives ensure that his voice remains relevant in contemporary British political debate, offering readers an alternative perspective on the pressing issues facing the United Kingdom today.