This crossword No. 744 clues and answers were published on Sun 20 Dec 2009 and the puzzle can be visited by following The Guardian Speedy Crossword No. 744 link.
All Across Clues and Answers:
5-across – Advantages compared to disadvantages : PROSANDCONS
7-across – Hankering : ITCH
8-across – —– – — order: perfect condition : APPLEPIE
9-across – Pressed : COOPTED
11-across – Engagingly stimulating or provocative : SALTY
13-across – Gristle : SINEW
14-across – Large grazing animal of temperate Europe and Asia : REDDEER
16-across – Achy lips : PHYSICAL
17-across – Coal stratum : SEAM
18-across – Form of voting : SHOWOFHANDS
All Down Clues and Answers:
1-down – Lepidopteran : MOTH
2-down – Confused talk and activity : PALAVER
3-down – Proficient : ADEPT
4-down – Mother country : HOMELAND
5-down – Make consistent or orderly arrangements : PUTTORIGHTS
6-down – Stop rowing! : SHIPTHEOARS
10-down – Unit reserved for reporters at a sporting event : PRESSBOX
12-down – Very rich : WEALTHY
15-down – Descendent or heir : SCION
17-down – Plummet : SINK
This crossword has in total 20 where 10 are across and 10 are down.