Intends trial to be matter of affordability (5,4)
I believe the answer is:
means test
'be matter of affordability' is the definition.
Although both the answer and definition are singular nouns, I don't understand how one could define the other.
'intends trial' is the wordplay.
'intends' becomes 'means' (meaning is a kind of intending).
'trial' becomes 'test' (synonyms).
'means'+'test'='MEANS-TEST'
'to' acts as a link.
Can you help me to learn more?
(Other definitions for means test that I've seen before include "it may lead to a benefit" , "examination of available funds" , "financial review" , "Financial assessment for statesmen" , "Check to see if one qualifies for assistance" .)