Crossword Genius

Requests the dope to get hold of the back end (4)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

asks

'requests' is the definition.
('ask' can be a synonym of 'request')

'dope to get hold of the back end' is the wordplay.
'dope' becomes 'ass' (both can mean a stupid person).
'to get hold of' indicates putting letters inside.
'end' indicates one should take the final letters.
The last letter of 'back' is 'k'.
'ass' placed around 'k' is 'ASKS'.

'the' acts as a link.

(Other definitions for asks that I've seen before include "Inquires (4)" , "Demands (something of someone)" , "Poses a question" , "Questions" , "Inquiries" .)

I've seen this clue in the Evening Standard.
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