1971 Steering Columns for Console Equipped Cars

[saforwardlook]

What is the purpose of the arm on the top of the steering column that needs to be pulled downward to lock the ignition switch in 1971? This was used only in 1971 as far as I know. Putting the console shifter in park allows the key to be turned off in other years, and in 1971 you had to also pull down on the lever to shut it off. Why - what problem was solved with this lever, and if important, why was it discontinued in 1971 and later cars?

 

[jimt1971rr]

I am not sure as to exactly why there is this lock lever. I have one on my 71 with a 4 speed and ther is also a lock button on my 97 Neon with a 5 speed. It might be a "safety" thing required with manual transmission cars and they just used the same column for console and manual cars that year.