Neutral gear safety switch

[DODD]

Can anyone point me in the right direction please.

I have been checking over my 410 in readiness for a trip to Europe. Quite by chance I have found an issue when starting the car.

The engine will turnover and start when the auto shift lever is in Drive! That’s in addition to the normal positions of Neutral and Park.

The engine will not turnover/start in any other position (1st, 2nd or reverse).
I don’t know how long this has been an issue as I only ever start the car in Park.

I believe the switch on the side of the shift lever only controls the reversing lights. I disconnected that switch anyway but the problem still exists. I don’t know if there is another switch or relay located elsewhere on the car.

All thoughts will be very much appreciated.

Brian