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Those in The House listening to The Speaker (8)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

audience

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'speaker' is the definition.
Although both the answer and definition are singular nouns, I cannot understand how they can define each other.

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

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for audience that I've seen before include "Formal interview with ruler or VIP" , "Theatre-goers" , "Formal or ceremonial interview" , "Formal interview with very important person" , "Group of spectators or listeners" .)

I've seen this clue in the Irish Times (Crosaire) and the Irish Times.
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