File Note
VISIT OF PHILHARMONICA HUNGARIA TO HONG KONG
1.
At CRD's suggestion, I was rung today by Mr Jasper Parrott of Harris and Parrott (tel 229-9166) who are promotion agents for classical
soloists, ensembles, orchestras etc.
2. For the past two years, Mr Parrott has been negotiating with the
1983 Hong Kong Arts Festival people over the participation in the Festival of the Philharmonica Hungaria. This orchestra, established
in the late 1950's, is composed mostly of émigré Hungarians. It is
based in the FRG, near Dusseldorf. It has made scores of recordings
and overseas tours, some sponsored by the Government of the FRG.
3.
According to Mr Parrott, who has just returned from Hong Kong,
the terms, programme and contract have now been agreed. This morning,
however, he received a telex from the Hong Kong Arts Festival people
saying that the Hong Kong Immigration Authorities had categorically
declined to give clearance to this orchestra to enter Hong Kong.
4. Mr Parrott can only assume that this is because most of the members
technically still have Hungarian or Rumanian nationality, although all (except one, whom he said he could replace) have German or Austrian travel documents and guaranteed permission to re-enter the FRG.
5.
Mr Parrott, who said he was happy to return to Hong Kong forthwith if necessary, would be grateful for any help or advice. I promised to investigate and call him back.
سلم الله
5 February 1982
W Morris