On some SRS systems when the ecu is unplugged the firing circuits are connected to earth to remove static and prevent unintentional deployment
Not sure if this is the case for Freelander but worth considering before getting carried away!
the battery is out, the loom is disconnected at the fusebox end and all the plugs are disconnected too so there really shouldn't be any path to ground - but I aint no elec-chicken. The only way for me to be sure about what's happening is to get the loom out and inspect it for faults.
But thanks for the heads up - all thoughts and input greatly appreciated
cheers
Simon