Does disconnecting the battery result in the key being released? If so then have a feel of the electronic boxes under the gear shifter to see if one is hot. I had this problem, garage was convinced it was at the ignition barrel, so they removed the tumblers from the lock which allowed me to get to work, but meant that any key/screwdriver could start the car. Found a replacement barrel from a 3.0l, which slots in fine by the way, and ... No change. Anyway I got the garage to change this electronic unit (£40-odd from Toyota) and problem solved. I knew it was an electronic fault as I left the car for a long weekend and found the battery drained.