Here is an update:

"Readers of the Manchester Evening News may be interested to know that there is an up-date to this story. According to our records, the orchestra's representative had not spoken to the Embassy Consulate directly and had apparently misunderstood information delivered by the call center. The consulate in fact works with large groups frequently and always seeks to minimize the inconvenience to them. A telephone call from an Embassy consul to the orchestra has explained that we can schedule a block of time for the entire group or a series of small groups and individuals, whatever works best for them. The tour was slated for 2007 so we hope the Halle Orchestra will reconsider and avail themselves of the opportunity to make arrangements for visas. In the future, technology may allow us to take the necessary biometrics (electronic fingerprints) outside of the Embassy but until then we will work with groups to insure that we facilitate every legitimate visitor seeking to travel to the US. Since the biometric and interview requirements were introduced in 2004, we have shown an increase in the number of visas issued to performers, over 5600 last year. Many of those performers may reside in London, but certainly not all. So it is fair to say that while onerous, the visa application process should not be the deciding factor in whether a performer travels to the US or not. Our policy is "Secure Borders and Open Doors". We encourage you to visit the US. You can learn more by visiting our web site: london.usembassy.gov Rick Roberts Minister Counselor for Public Affairs
Rick Roberts, London"