Answer odd R&D queries when needed (2,8)
I believe the answer is:
as required
'when needed' is the definition.
(synonyms)
'answer odd rd queries' is the wordplay.
'answer' becomes 'a' (abbreviation eg in Q and A).
'odd' indicates anagramming the letters.
'rd'+'queries'='rdqueries'
'rdqueries' with letters rearranged gives 'srequired'.
'a'+'srequired'='AS REQUIRED'
I've seen this clue in The Guardian.
Want a hint initially instead of a full solution?
Install my app