Crossword Genius

Following number in contact with PM? (9)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

afternoon

'pm?' is the definition.
(as in 4pm)

'following number in contact with' is the wordplay.
'following' becomes 'after' (following can mean after or as a result of).
'number' becomes 'no' (abbreviation).
'in contact with' becomes 'on' (to be on something is to be touching it).
'after'+'no'+'on'='AFTERNOON'

(Other definitions for afternoon that I've seen before include "one not far out" , "time for tea" , "The period following midday" , "Time of day" , "Then it's early in this!" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times.
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