Crossword Genius

Governing body putting writer in a spot (5,9)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

local authority

'governing body' is the definition.

'writer in a spot' is the wordplay.
'writer' becomes 'author' (synonyms).
'in' indicates putting letters inside.
'a spot' becomes 'locality'.
'author' placed within 'locality' is 'LOCAL AUTHORITY'.

'putting' acts as a link.

(Another definition for local authority that I've seen is " Such as a town or county council".)

I've seen this clue in The Times.
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