BUSINESS owners in Goring met John Howell to hear what the Government is doing to help small and medium enterprises.

The Henley MP was at the Goring Gap Business Network meeting at the Swan at Streatley Hotel.

Mr Howell talked about the Project Merlin agreement which means banks will increase lending by 15 per cent and the new National Loan Guarantee Scheme, which allows banks to lend money to small businesses from the Government at a lower cost.

He wanted to find out whether this money was reaching businesses in the area. Fiona Strange, from the Goring Veterinary Centre, said: “A really useful mix of topics was discussed. It was of interest not just to retailers but to all who live and work in the Goring Gap.”

Other issues discussed included the production of an information brochure for Goring and Streatley, how to increase broadband speeds, late-night opening, banking issues, parking and traffic and loyalty cards.


About 30 people attended the event. For more information, call secretary Geoff Brown on (01491) 872007 or email oxford@dor2dor.com

Published 08/10/12