This crossword No. 586 clues and answers were published on Sun 10 Dec 2006 and the puzzle can be visited by following The Guardian Speedy Crossword No. 586 link.
All Across Clues and Answers:
1-across – Soften the sound : MUTE
3-across – Abandonment of religious faith : APOSTASY
8-across – Rend : TEAR
9-across – Into pots? : SPITTOON
11-across – Talkative : LOQUACIOUS
14-across – Tripodal base for kitchen appliances : TRIVET
15-across – Delegate : ASSIGN
17-across – One who commits violent acts without guilt : PSYCHOPATH
20-across – Newly-important and arrogant : JUMPEDUP
21-across – Osculation : KISS
22-across – Remnants : RESIDUES
23-across – Ancient Greek stringed instrument : LYRE
All Down Clues and Answers:
1-down – Maim : MUTILATE
2-down – Peaceful : TRANQUIL
4-down – Kind of eating apple : PIPPIN
5-down – Establishes a business : SETSUPSHOP
6-down – English river name in multiple use : AVON
7-down – Pull : YANK
10-down – Accept : TAKEASREAD
12-down – Effervescence : VIVACITY
13-down – Lascivious : UNCHASTE
16-down – Impeach : ACCUSE
18-down – Slightly open : AJAR
19-down – Old Testament book : AMOS
This crossword has in total 24 where 12 are across and 12 are down.