MEMBERS of the Chagford and District Business Association quizzed their local MP Mel Stride recently on a variety of business-related issues. Matters raised with the MP for Central Devon included the Government's action to reduce red tape, changes to planning guidelines over change of use from business to domestic, which affects high street shops, financial incentives available to businesses for taking on more employees and business rates. Mr Stride was able to report back that the Government has recently introduced a series of measures to help high street businesses and that 410 local shops, pubs and restaurants in West Devon could see their tax bills cut by a third as a result. The measures include £1,000 off business rate bills for all retail premises with a rateable value up to £50,000, a 2% cap on business rate increases and the continuation of Small Business Rate Relief for another year. Guild member Patrick Johnstone, who organised the meeting with the association and Mr Stride, said: 'I know from previous meetings I've had with Mel that he has a keen interest in issues affecting small business and it was very helpful having him answer some of our questions. 'There are a number of positive signs for businesses in the area but the Government needs to continue and extend its support for small businesses where possible if our small market towns are to thrive.' Mr Stride said: 'It was very useful to catch up with Patrick and other members of the association and to get direct feedback on aspects of the Government's business policy in key areas such as business taxation and planning.'