Confusion as section of formal debate is retracted (6)
I believe the answer is:
bedlam
'confusion' is the definition.
(I know that bedlam is a type of confusion)
'section of formal debate is retracted' is the wordplay.
'section of' indicates the answer is hidden within the clue.
'is retracted' says the letters should be written backwards.
'maldeb' can be found hidden inside 'formal debate'.
'maldeb' written backwards gives 'BEDLAM'.
'as' is the link.
(Other definitions for bedlam that I've seen before include "Complete chaos" , "Blames for uproar" , "State of extreme confusion and disorder" , "Blamed for chaotic situation" , "Loud confused noise" .)