thanks for the reply,
thought the problem with the ignition had gone, as the car is now two and a half weeks old of which the first week, i had ignition problems. But during the whole of the second week the problem seemed to have dissapeared (unfortunate really as i had booked the car in for a check up and since the ignition seemed fine, the dealers couldn't find anything wrong - they probably thought i was winding them up!!). Now that i have got the car back, the problem has started again!
Anyway, with regard to the point you made about the CD player draining the battery (i have seen posts of this in the forum before) but i don't think this is the problem with my car as after the first attempt of starting the car fails, my second attempt (a few seconds later, always start). Anyhow, I don't have the single slot CD, I have the CD changer, so i think we can safely rule that out of the equation.
But the second point you brought up, is a lot more interesting (and i think that may be the problem with my car). I will mention this to my dealer about the program box not picking up the key ignition fast enough, but first i would like to gather more info. So i would be very greatful if you could provide me with more info on this. I would also like other mini owners comments as to wether they have had this delayed response ('slow progrm box') problem with their cars.
Thanks again Carol