Posting this in case others have the same problem. I have a 2001 Td4 auto.

The blinkers used to stop the engine and a burning electrics smell would be noticed if you didn't turn them off. The dealer wanted me to spend 1000s on all new electrics for the steering column controls. The fault is in the hazard light button which has a 10 pin connection (centre of dash - easy to get our once you remove radio). Dealer will want hundreds for a shinny new red hazard button but you can order them from the UK after market for 30 quid. Meantime run a wire between pin 8 and 9 (bottom row right side of the socket with the button removed. Blinkers will work like new :-) That took hours with a multi-meter to find. Hope it helps someone else.

Kindly, Demi