Alas Vine & Hitchens
Daily Mail
What's the Big Idea? Finally, Sarah Vine (once memorably described as being ‘like and loathed in equal measure, divisive, but never indecisive’) and Peter Hitchens (a man whose writing a critic was called to compare to a Guardsman’s boot: ‘as highly polished and potentially lethal’) meet once a week to look at the world and mutter, alas… Acclaimed columnist and journalist Sarah Vine and best-selling author and broadcaster Peter Hitchens discuss and dissect social, economic, and pop cultural flotsam and jetsam that have risen out of the dark waters of that week’s news. Taking one big idea each episode and pulling it apart with élan, imagine Vine and Hitchens respective columns brought to life and then skewered, scoffed at, debated, and given the full weight of Vine and Hitchens impenetrable gaze. Though an accord might not always be reached, it’s the journey that matters. Whether it’s the tech bros gone rogue – Meta tearing up its own rule book on fact checking, Musk attempting to influence governmental policy, or the knotty subject on society’s ever-increasing reliance on anti-depressants to treat what might just be the modern malaise and not depression at all. Or, evil, nature or nurture? Does evil actually exist or is it an idea that hangs over us, or do we just sometime embody it and the actions themselves are evil, not the individual? All this and more are to be pored over, one towering topic each week discussed with humour, insight, and real understanding. To get in touch email alas@mailonline.co.uk, you can leave a comment on Spotify or even send us a voice note on WhatsApp - on 07796 657512 start your message with the word 'alas' Presenters: Sarah Vine & Peter Hitchens Producer: Phillip Wilding Editor: Chelsey Moore Production Manager: Vittoria Cecchini Executive Producer: Jamie East A Daily Mail production. Seriously Popular Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Nov 19, 2025 • 40min
Piggy, Lady Chatterley’s Lover and the late Leon Trotsky
Delve into the riveting legacy of Leon Trotsky and the chilling story of his assassination by Ramón Mercader. The hosts debate the appropriateness of using the term 'piggy' in political discourse, particularly reflecting on Trump's controversial comments. Explore how insults in modern politics contribute to tribalism and division, while examining the cultural impact of misogyny. The discussion extends to literature, featuring Welsh authors and insights on Lady Chatterley’s Lover. Discover favorite fictional characters and recommended reading that enrich this engaging conversation.
14 snips
Nov 12, 2025 • 50min
Cancel Culture and Something Rotten at the BBC
This discussion dives into the fallout from Kate Clanchy’s cancellation, spotlighting the increasingly vocal outrage on social media and its impact on authors. The hosts analyze controversies at the BBC, including edits of Trump’s speeches and the debate over institutional bias. They ponder the role of publishers and the cowardice in the face of online pressure, while also debating the balance between free speech and online regulation. Plus, amusing anecdotes about travel mishaps and a love for vivid food descriptions in literature add a lighthearted touch.
18 snips
Nov 5, 2025 • 43min
(Prince) Andrew, Useless Architects and Awful Airport Security
The hosts dive into the controversy surrounding Prince Andrew's Falklands medals and debate the fairness of his title removal. They question the effectiveness of airport-style security in train stations and discuss the ridiculousness of underwire bras at screenings. Frustrations about parking permit portals highlight the problems of automated systems. A listener's letter sparks a lively critique of modern architecture and public taste. They also recommend engaging history books to rekindle a love for the past.
18 snips
Oct 29, 2025 • 40min
The Hopeless Home Office and A Cosmic Car Crash
This week, the hosts dive into Britain's crumbling infrastructure, questioning the aesthetics of new developments that mar the countryside. They tackle the baffling dysfunction of the Home Office, dissecting its £23 billion budget and persistent blunders. The conversation breezes through the value of craftsmanship in architecture, lamenting the rise of ugly buildings due to misguided regulations. The duo also faces off over Pink Floyd's cultural significance, sparking a fascinating debate about music's place in society.
23 snips
Oct 22, 2025 • 43min
The Covid Legacy and Now Is Not The Time
The hosts delve into the fallout from school closures during the pandemic, questioning their long-term impact on children. They critique government panic and political capitulation, highlighting Sweden's more reasoned COVID approach. Discussions touch on the erosion of critical thinking in education and the implications of distorted time through daylight saving. They also explore listener questions about the monarchy's role and concerns about political identity, with entertaining anecdotes about accents and memoirs adding a personal touch.
30 snips
Oct 15, 2025 • 46min
The End of Prince Andrew and What Did Thatcher Ever Do for Us?
The hosts debate Margaret Thatcher's legacy, weighing her charisma against the efficacy of her policies. They discuss the implications of Prince Andrew's continued presence in public life, suggesting he should retire to safeguard the monarchy. Peter reflects on Thatcher's controversial decisions, including social policies and the failure to secure lasting conservative reforms. The conversation also touches on the Green Party's political impact and where the hosts prefer to holiday in the UK, revealing an array of scenic destinations.
18 snips
Oct 8, 2025 • 39min
Singing Bob Dylan on a Steep Hill and Health & Safety Gone Mad
Peter and Sarah dive into the absurdity of parks shutting down at the first hint of rain. They tackle the compelling yet contentious topic of youth activism and anti-Semitism, sparking a wider debate on Israel-Palestine dynamics. Personal anecdotes flood in, like Peter’s wild bike theft chase and Sarah’s cheeky family feud. They shed light on excessive health-and-safety measures and nostalgic moments of singing Bob Dylan while pedaling uphill. Join for laughter, lively discussions, and thought-provoking insights!
20 snips
Oct 1, 2025 • 44min
Digital IDs, Dinosaurs and Class A Drugs
Digital ID cards spark a heated debate on privacy and potential government control. Peter and Sarah dive into the absurdities of national obsessions, from tea rituals to infrastructure quirks. Michael Gove's drug confessions raise questions about accountability and sincerity. The duo also explores time travel fantasies, with destinations ranging from historical events to the age of dinosaurs, paired with dream artifacts to bring back. Nostalgia for train journeys and reflections on collective cultural fixations round out their engaging discussion.
30 snips
Sep 24, 2025 • 36min
The Cost of Health Tourism and Why Do We Kill?
Delve into the intriguing world of medical tourism as the hosts uncover the hefty £252m the NHS is owed. They challenge the reluctance to charge foreign patients and explore the balance between public and private healthcare. The conversation turns dark when they analyze the psychological factors behind assassinations, discussing motives like fanaticism and the quest for notoriety. They also touch on the impact of the internet and drugs on violent behavior. Finally, a listener's question sparks a debate on the Union Jack versus the Union Flag.
22 snips
Sep 17, 2025 • 39min
Our Submarine Fleet is Sunk and what to call Camilla
Peter and Sarah dive into the complexities of calling Camilla 'the Queen', blending personal anecdotes with public sentiment. They lament the struggles of Britain's submarine fleet, exploring the heavy costs and controversial US missile leases. Listener dreams take a humorous turn as Peter reveals his car, while they tackle broader topics including traffic light frustrations and a critique of psychiatric practices. Their insightful discussions touch on current affairs, thrumming with wit and engaging commentary.
