This crossword No. 21990 clues and answers were published on Wed 30 Aug 2000 and the puzzle can be visited by following The Guardian Cryptic Crossword No. 21990 link.
All Across Clues and Answers:
7-across – Lads can be involved in dishonour : SCANDAL
8-across – Gear cobbler used : CLOBBER
10-across – Veiled intruder in Poulenc overture : COVERT
11-across – Kind of order that’s never found out : ENCLOSED
12-across – Transport for the reserve team : TAXI
13-across – But it could be handy in a put-up job : STEPLADDER
14-across – Cheap drink! It makes for an expansive habit : FARTHINGALE
19-across – Supply cars in dodgy trade : ADMINISTER
22-across – Puppet following party lines : DOLL
23-across – Most comedians admit disappointment : COMEDOWN
24-across – Houses like Westminster! : ABBEYS
25-across – Soldier, foul-mouthed in simile or trope, perhaps : TROOPER
26-across – Bishop nearly provoked flattery : BLARNEY
All Down Clues and Answers:
1-down – One who does good turns : ACROBAT
2-down – Girl who is sweet on tarts, perhaps : ANGELICA
3-down – Drink soft sparkling wines : PASTIS
4-down – Colour on scab : BLACKLEG
5-down – Exotic Baroda is foreign to me : ABROAD
6-down – The youngest in the form! : LEVERET
9-down – Drink as a rule in 24 : BENEDICTINE
15-down – Made to derail : TAILORED
16-down – The insect for Mother Goose? : LADYBIRD
17-down – Stop messing around with Jack : ADJOURN
18-down – It keeps children occupied with toys : PLAYPEN
20-down – Reserve place in theatre for freezer : ICEBOX
21-down – Actually make friends again : REALLY
This crossword has in total 26 where 13 are across and 13 are down.