CRYPTICCROSSWORD

Across 4 The United Nations has to amend that relating to the world (7) 8 Preliminary action before the duel took place? (7) 9 It needs sound timing when producing such a strong fabric (7) 10 It’s about such ill will that a reprieve is needed (7) 11 I repeat, love is needed to work in the theatre (7) 12 Return that gun and get something valuable (6) 14 You’ll use some lesser energy if you will remain calm (6) 18 Plays for a long time and what a bind it’s become (7) 21 Stay near to the one that will encourage you (7) 22 As an alien, I shed a tear and I do it repeatedly (7) 23 Gee! You meant to make it bigger? (7) 24 Due at last to have my rank acknowledged (7) Down 1 Sternly disciplined when you box with Brown (7) 2 Pleased to be holding a letting contract (5) 3 I’d get in a blue and you’d be sure to hear about it (7) 4 Or you see me with an alien star that’s really moving (6) 5 You need a crane to extract mother-of-pearl (5) 6 Get Ian on the team and put some life in it (7) 7 Big Bird is very popular with golfers (5) 13 Although a well-bred little gentleman, you’ll see how slippery he is (7) 15 Prohibition placed on a barge in Missouri initially (7) 16 About to name the sort of tea that will flow out easily (7) 17 Take the lead or I’ll cut you off (6) 18 It’s so heavenly when you bless and give small change (5) 19 Separated a division (5) 20 The queen of the heavens? (5)