Bert's pal (5)
I believe the answer is:
ernie
'bert's pal' is the definition.
(I've seen this in another clue)
This is the entire clue.
(Other definitions for ernie that I've seen before include "National Savings computer" , "Premium Bond selecting machine" , "Man - chooses Premium Bond winners" , "Eric Morecambe & - - Wise" , "Bondsman" .)