Thanks

Ah, I see! I had 'sprat' but discarded it due to the 's'. I don't think I would have got the 'not short' part (very clever!)

I solved this next one a few days ago but I'd question part of the solution. Just want to see whether the rest think of you think it's legal or not.

A bad turn for one contemptuously treating clamp (10) 2 'e's

Clue time:

-i-----i-- (2 e's, 2 i's and another pair)

Clue time again:

clamp = vice

I had "disservice", but had no idea how "disser"
could be clued with "one contemptuously treating",
so didn't submit it; so I guess don't deserve The Belt!

I guess "disser" as in one who disses.

dis or diss (dĭs)
tr.v. dissed, diss·ing, diss·es Informal
To show disrespect to, often by insult or criticism: "[The network] is often dissed for going after older, less demographically desirable viewers" (Michael McWilliams).

[African American Vernacular English, short for disrespect.]

I have seen dis and diss but never disser.

HAHAHAHAHA

No wonder I had no chance --- Even with my glasses on I read it as treat DAMP!!!!

Correct Denis! ===[**WCF**]===

My problem is, are you allowed use a 'made up' word as part of the solve? 'Disser' ain't no word!
Seems very dodgy to me.

Ahhh...I get belt anyway?! Thanks, Treval.

Conferences in Nepal averted by Senate (8) one "e"

Conferences in Nepal averted by Senate (8)

Conferences = Palavers (direct)

Hidden word - NePAL AVERted + S

Geezzz...15 minutes

Here ya go, K : ===[**WCF**]===

Thank you Mr. D

Mistake a contraction with no set pattern (7)

Erratic

direct = with no set pattern
err = mistake
a = a
tic = contraction

===[**WCF**]===

Thanks Koala

One from a local paper (with a slight change from myself)

I will probably be 'noodled' for this, but let's try it anyway

Restrict tipsy cardinal..(7) 1'i'

very clever crypt!

CAPital