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Hi, Rusty!
Yes, for 4d, I have "exec" = "manager"(def)
I thought "ex" - "old"
but am stuck on the EC?
EC is a London city post code...but I cannot see that this is any help?
You could well be correct with your fathoming of "EC", ONCE meaning
"European Community"
I certainly cannot see any other plausible explanation.
Well done!
For 25a, I have "duo" = "pair"(def)
but can go no further...
Do you think "report" may indicate a homophone?

Hi, rusty
I haven't dropped in on this thread before, but after finding nothing in the one for this puzzle am glad to see a parsing of 'exec' which confirms the idea I had.

Hello, Phantom!
Let's hope we are correct!

Yes, my thoughts on 'duo' were just that, too.

Hello, Elle!
Report can mean a "sound".
"outstanding" means "due" as in a debt, sounds "du".
"Au" is pronounced "O".
Giving "duo".
That's my take on it, Elle, but could be persuaded otherwise if you have any suggestions?

Hi, Rusty!
Oops! our posts had crossed!
We had the same thought about "report" indicating a homophone/ sound alike ...so perhaps this means we are definitely on the right track?
I think you have "cracked" it!
Your parsing sounds good !
Anyway , it will do fine for me!
Brilliant!

Good, Phantom!
You are very welcome to join in the Chatty Thread anytime!

Hello, Elle!
I probably did not explain it as plainly as I meant, though!
I hope it is correct, Elle, and to that end, I shall award myself a sticky bun!

Rusty...…..
Your post to Phantom has just crossed with mine to you - for a second time!!
Just checking you have seen both my posts?

Oops, best scroll back a bit, Rusty -- we've just crossed for a third time!( Where's my sticky bun?)