Hi J0nesy
I have talked to Mini UK, they said that the R56 switching is the same as the post July 2004.
So I would take out the igniter and check to see if they are correct or the technician is correct.
As it is a choice of two, then it makes it much easier.
I did check on mine last night, but only by trying to move the white lever.
When you push the lever down there is a click noise, very faint. Only problem was I didn't have time to wait until it got dark to see if it made a difference.
I look forward to your response to confirm which of the two options it is.