Corner-cutting politician admitted to going downhill (8)

I believe the answer is:

skimping

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'going downhill' is the definition.
The definition and answer can be both to do with social activities as well as being present participle verbs.
Maybe they are linked in a way I don't understand?

'corner-cutting politician admitted' is the wordplay.
'corner-cutting' becomes 'skiing' (I am not sure about this - if you are sure you should give a lot more credence to this answer).
'politician' becomes 'MP' (Member of Parliament).
'admitted' indicates putting letters inside.
'skiing' enclosing 'mp' is 'SKIMPING'.

'to' acts as a link.

Can you help me to learn more?

I've seen this clue in The Times.

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