CRYPTIC CROSSWORD

Across

1. Chemist studies this answer in dubious HMRC apology (12) 8. Titipu factotum initially has a brass band withdrawn (4-3) 9. American can upset very old raconteur and writer (7) 11. Leaderless problemsolving talks produce squalls (10) 12. Working during this time builds reputation (4) 14. Utter depression overwhelms house (8) 16. Warships in a drama at sea (6) 17. Tease chap (3) 19. Clever sign for British drivers arriving in Calais? (6) 21. Wine found in Omani capital by the Spanish (8) 24. Borders of Tibet cleared by wild goat (4) 25. Mark’s pocketing remaining English coins (10) 27. The MOD’s complex systems (7) 28. A tinier novel that shows lack of activity (7) 29. Tracey enters presently, ousting son in particular (3-9)

Down

1. Six shillings in dreadfully poor condition (7) 2. A boss is set to be treated for lung disease (10) 3. Oriental game magazine keeps John busy? Good (3-5) 4. College game of little value (6) 5. They get drawn randomly a great deal (4) 6. Canal boat manoeuvres along with party on board (7) 7. Belief in special religious ceremony is minute (12) 10. I travel with Arabs abroad to find celestial phenomenon (8,4) 13. For example, relay song with smooth tempo (5,5) 15. I’d left damp unpleasant smell (3) 18. Some say you’ll improve over Christmas (8) 20. Priest leaves person who’s repenting to go back in (2-5) 22. How to hold the guilty criminal EU released? (7) 23. Snooty type upended perfect ornamental tree (6) 26. Tender rose needs training (4)