I can't find any meaning for 'samit' other than an Indian first name. I do have 'ethic' for 17a. which is a part anagram of
19d. 'het up' with 'ic' added. I also have for 22a. 'intense'
and 24a. lapse.
Shorthorn, thank you for confirming my answers. I don't have a Chambers dictionary and use the New Oxford, but I see I shall have to invest in the latter as I've noticed its being used a few times recently.
Thank you Harry. I was in Germany last week and a friend emailed the crossword which I did manage to complete but this week is a disaster. Have you finished it?