Mk2 horn

[Buck]

I recently purchased a rough but running 1955. The wiring is very dodgy. It's +earth.
The horn was in the boot...had been ripped out because it was blowing fuses...the 2 wires were hanging loose in the engine compartment. I've put a test lamp on them...one seems to be continuously +ve and the other continuously -ve
I've tried connecting several different horns(some single terminal and some dual terminals) and they all just work continuously.
I've checked inside the horn button and it seems OK. Any advice appreciated.

[ManyMinors]

If the car's wiring is generally poor I would highly recommend a new wiring loom. They're not SO difficult to fit if you're systematic, spend your time and have the correct wiring diagram.
Yes, the live to the horn is permanent from the fuse. The horn push completes the earth circuit, so I guess there must be a short either in that wire or a fault with the contact up on the steering column/hornpush?
The Series11 as it is known (rather than mark2) has a slightly different arrangement to the Minor 1000 but a similar principle.

[bmcecosse]

As above - the problem is in the column/horn push.

[Buck]

Thank you for the rapid reply> Your advice re a new wiring loom is noted...I'll ultimately have to bite the bullet (there was also a home-made spaghetti-like attempt at indicator lights that don't flash when the headlights are on...I've removed it) One more Q?> the single wire from the horn button that disappears down the steering column...I assume that it passes through a hole in the column to connect to the brass ferrule just below the steering support bracket. Is that likely to be the source of the short? Is there any way to access that connection? Thanks.