This crossword No. 11972 clues and answers were published on Sat 20 Sep 2008 and the puzzle can be visited by following The Guardian Quick Crossword No. 11972 link.
All Across Clues and Answers:
1-across – Back of the neck : SCRUFF
4-across – Rice field – temper : PADDY
7-across – Old Iran : PERSIA
8-across – Retire to bed : TURNIN
9-across – As well : ALSO
10-across – Arrogant : COCKSURE
12-across – Type of white wine : CHENINBLANC
17-across – Showy but worthless articles : TRUMPERY
19-across – Spots : ACNE
20-across – Stone figure with human head and lion’s body : SPHINX
21-across – Plenty : OODLES
22-across – In a cunning manner : SLYLY
23-across – Aromatic yellow plant of the parsley family : FENNEL
All Down Clues and Answers:
1-down – Resin in flakes, used to making varnish : SHELLAC
2-down – Spiced meat coated in breadcrumbs and fried : RISSOLE
3-down – Authorisation to engage in specific commercial activity : FRANCHISE
4-down – Play a guitar – prepare a chicken for the pot : PLUCK
5-down – Iconic lover : DONJUAN
6-down – Over there : YONDER
11-down – Small enclosed space : CUBBYHOLE
13-down – Supercilious : HAUGHTY
14-down – Magic lamp rubber? : ALADDIN
15-down – Hide : CONCEAL
16-down – Period of equilibrium : STASIS
18-down – Apron-like protective garment : PINNY
This crossword has in total 25 where 13 are across and 12 are down.