Because, per se, it does mean "to defame" (7)

I believe the answer is:

asperse

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'to defame' is the definition.
('asperse' can be a synonym of 'defame')

'because per se' is the wordplay.
'because' becomes 'as' (I've seen this in other clues).
'as'+'per'+'se'='ASPERSE'

'it does mean' acts as a link.
This may not be right. Some or all of it may belong to another bit of the clue.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for asperse that I've seen before include "Disparage" , "Defame" , "Call names" , "Slander or calumniate" , "Accuse falsely" .)

I've seen this clue in the Evening Standard.

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