Crossword Genius

Goes slowly, like a number of politicians (5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

limps

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'goes slowly' is the definition.
Although both the answer and definition are verbs in their -s form, I can't understand how one could define the other.

'number of politicians' is the wordplay.
'number of' becomes 'li' (I can't justify this - if you can you should believe this answer much more).
'politicians' becomes 'MPs' (Members of Parliament).
'li'+'mps'='LIMPS'

'like a' acts as a link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for limps that I've seen before include "Hobbles" , "Walks haltingly" .)

I've seen this clue in the Evening Standard.
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