Freeing from fear of old truth in government (8)

I believe the answer is:

soothing

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'freeing from fear of old' is the definition.
Both the definition and answer are adjectives. Perhaps they are linked in a way I don't understand?

'truth in government' is the wordplay.
'truth' becomes 'sooth' (synonyms).
'government' becomes 'g'.
'sooth'+'in'+'g'='SOOTHING'

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for soothing that I've seen before include "Composing" , "Balmy" , "peaceful" , "calming effect" , "restful" .)

I've seen this clue in The Guardian.

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