Quick crossword No 185

Thanks the, an enjoyable and mostly gentle solve over breakfast (and a bit beyond…), with a topical theme threaded through. I particularly enjoyed and admired 8a, 9a, 1d & 17d among others. A few clues a bit convoluted, but no real clangers. One minor point in reply, spoilers…

A fun solve that was possibly sponsored by the BBC (and bears investigation). 2D could be considered political commentary. 9A was tricky! I thank the