You're doing things the hard way. ;)
Change your braking system to a surge type of braking. The one from Night Shift Auto is what we have on a 2008 Mini Clubman and it works great!
Next, an R57 Mini does not have a locking steering column. You do not need to leave the key in the ignition. Tell your friend to go out and try it. ;) Turn the ignition off and crank the steering wheel. Pre 2009 convertibles and pre 2008 hardtops had locking steering but not the later models.
Hubby and I have towed a 2008 Mini Clubman for over 30,000 miles.
