Possible Clues:

• Neat liquids gone astray — this might provoke the desired answer
• It is, isn't it?
• Principal seeking independence -- relating to this may give the desired answer
• Designation for who or what, perhaps
• This is Q1, isn't it?
• Who's to be captain? This implies the answer
• "Who's ahead?"?
• Who shall be principal first violin? Me?
• It might cause an objection
• Trace of gold in base metal under discussion — it shouldn't be put in case