The diagram is 13 x 13, normal style, i.e. with black and white squares, and has cyclic symmetry through ninety degrees. Every letter of the alphabet appears at least once in the solution.

ACROSS

  1. We hear it said: a meeting’s been devised
      With Ronald and with David – we’re surprised! (10)
  7. Opposed official detectives holding a lot of power. (7)
  8. The rogue and the trainee. (5)
10. Fuel problem taking us to front of utility. (6)
12. The skilled roam by ship where landlubbers might sink. (6)
13. System showing sound return given deep consideration. (5)
14. Written during day three, book has surfing passage. (4)
16. Come and check. (4)
17. A good light, with no power, still seems to be on. (5)
19. Do the right thing by halves, perhaps. (6)
20. So annoying, our set ways: they’re sure to upset. (6)
23. Forests, out north – where a giant returns? (5)
24. The recession we always have to have! (3,4)
25. Due to constraints on time, date regrettably put back. (10)

DOWN

  1. Rebel taking new heart after wash. (5)
  2. Halo spinning: below, the minister! (6)
  3. A place may be covered this way. (4)
  4. Covert operations can bring disease. (6)
  5. Leading an early effort to support vultures etc. (7)
  6. Correction only in tandem with reform. (10)
  9. The boss is to inquire into matters of corruption. (10)
11. Stay or go, led by a troublemaker. (5)
12. A gentleman eating an egg at the main residence. (5)
15. Source of pots and pans sounds like location to miss. (7)
17. The odd thanks an article posted in can achieve. (6)
18. Charges cut back for animal like small bear. (6)
21. Gang in the east may form musical group. (5)
22. The stuff that comes with pressure, left-aligned,
      Evoking some reaction in the mind. (4)