Once again, EV leaves the Listener and Inquisitor a long way behind in terms of difficulty. I've managed to solve three clues after three days with only a vague idea of where they go. Getting the early ones would help to get the two unknown contestants so how about these? (In each case there is a redundant word).
9a Leader of operational authority mixing noxious gas capsules (7)
2d Mainland's steelyard monopolizing 75% of state's capital (6)
Thanks for any hints.