Remains seen after Government cuts (6)

I believe the answer is:

gashes

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'cuts' is the definition.
('gash' can be a synonym of 'cut')

I don't understand how the rest of the clue works.

(Other definitions for gashes that I've seen before include "Makes deep cut or wound" , "Deep cuts or wounds" , "Deep cuts made with a sharp instrument" .)

I've seen this clue in The Sunday Times and The Times.

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