Times Crossword

Across

1 Revamped Saudi PVC and international rubber business (5,3) 9 Cruel, having daft host do a tune! (8) 10 Something indistinct posh sort of camera conceals (4) 11 Deafening activity in cornmill? (3-9) 13 Entrance to basilica provided with ancient sort of doors? (6) 14 Welfare initiative with intent: right for everyone (8)

15 Pain keeping yours truly in old Scottish county hospital (7) 16 Test position pontiff, inelegantly, has adopted (4,3)

20 With team not qualified, we’re obliged to find station for lift home? (4,4) 22 Disinfectant no help with dislocation (6) 23 Several guards in front of gatehouse look cocky (12)

25 Dash from Channel, moving east to west (4)

26 Found vase for leading performer (4,4) 27 Bypass that is expanded in Home Counties, with parking (8)

Down

2 Of the fifty US states, ten finally earn a mention of sorts (8) 3 Note what you’re hoping to work out, after sort of light hesitation (12)

4 Had races organised as party game (8)

5 Hell for quiet supporter of mine! (7) 6 Husband effectively to provide this plant? (6)

7 Bed you’ll find in Washington DC’s superior (4)

8 One rolling up for protection from fellow corporate head: what a blunder! (8)

12 Thursday elevenses — small, not large — including a whole lot of water (3,5,4) 15 Militant part of drama to be played out much earlier? (8) 17 Acting style by lead on paper better (8) 18 Point to angle being formed, as protractors do? (8) 19 Films covering game seen in winter sports venues (3,4)

21 Batting team ultimately so determined? (3-3) 24 One’s always gracious (1,3)