Across
1
Nothing’s deferred in old combats? Exactly (4,2)
4
Discourage three consecutive semitones (7)
9
One caught by bad fortune on the end of traffic jam abroad (9)
10
I’m not sure Lorraine’s friend shows taste (5)
11
Iris controls this small animal, not quite needing a vet? (5)
12
Punches possessed energy? This could cover a shiner (9)
13
Blair’s enforcers, lacking aspiration, hope light touch works (7,6)
17
Period of inactivity takes place after return of exams (6)
19
Function of fellow who’s been sunbathing? (7)
22
Promise to keep silent on most of official questions put to voters (9)
24
Toy boxes fit finally for release (3,2)
26
Trouble afoot after leader’s ousted in Labour organisation (5)
27
Bugs in house – indefinite number of parasites (7-2)
28
Baking ingredient I’d picked up, having big mince pies (3-4)
Down
1
Small ball on grass for kitty (7)
2
You heard cracking jokes upset Dawn (5)
3
Rishi’s welcoming possible remedy for leaks (9)
4
Invent flipping sweet wrapping paper (5,2)
5
Some workers, due for rises, creating conflicts (5)
6
Scary fall from husband getting into a part of the bed (9)
7
Left 23 minus a hundred (6)
8
Intelligence securing extremely useful European fast-track possibilities (6,6)
14
Cheeky oaf occasionally filling in profile (3,2,4)
16
Most desperate for company to sell wine supply, not whiskey (9)
18
Wanting a dance, shy drunk is coordinated (7)
20
Batter opening for team runs a little bit (7)
21
Reason king wears drag – it’s a hit for the court (6,6)
23
Top taken off alcohol, desperate for it (5)
25
Linesman heading for Tottenham’s area, with Saints on ball (5)