Four unclued lights are thematic and are defined by two others. They are found in The 21 and 2 (also the singular of a fifth unclued light). Another unclued light is partly thematic, yet another was a high officer, whilst a final pair show status. One clued light is an abbreviation.
Across
11 Thankless daughter that’s broken up loves and leaves for season (7)
12 Biblical character with pain in both hands (6)
13 Carpet has nap woven round edge, all in scarlet (9)
14 Fantasy – in short, ecstasy (5)
16 Despots – Middle Eastern – contract lung infection (5)
19 Type of movie with lots of drawings? (7)
21 Nicosia, possibly – it’s in Cyprus (4)
24 King, born a woman, may have been bent (4)
25 ‘Quillwort’ is Old English – exam unfinished (7)
31 Alluring woman stripped for big show (4)
32 Lie concerned with Conservative policy (7)
34 Passage travelled by boat in sound (4)
35 Sign of cut in news exclusive about inflation measure (7)
37 Study book about France’s latest star (5)
40 I’m out to get a radio part, speaking with style (5)
41 Days somewhat hotter soon after Ash Wednesday? (9, two words)
42 Editorial report on songs (6)
43 Cold month outside concerns staff (7)
44 Town cook welcomes serenades (11)
Down
5 Put down, with help from the left (4)
6 Oriental massage given by some attractive Korean models (4, two words)
8 Out to lunch with foreign royalty close to Battersea college (7)
9 First post arrival (9, two words)
10 Pick up, pick up and catch up (7)
15 Senior Army officer nurses torn ligament – aim is off (5, two words)
17 A keen taste for the most part for modern painting medium (7)
18 Unclued class member to reprimand mignonette (11, two words)
20 School dictionary in near tatters...
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