Cryptic crossword clue
Makes progress while one backbencher rambles 8

The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 8 letter word IMPROVES

I've seen this crossword clue in Financial Times
I
M
P
R
O
V
E
S

Buddy explains!

The straight part
We know that "Makes progress" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case makes progress = improves.
The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.
This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.

What does IMPROVES mean?

IMPROVES verb
  1. To make (something) better; to increase the value or productivity (of something).
  2. To become better.
  3. To disprove or make void; to refute.
  4. To disapprove of; to find fault with; to reprove; to censure.
  5. To use or employ to good purpose; to turn to profitable account.

Latest crossword clues with full explanations