ignion paddlock locked?

i have a vetra 2.2 auto 2002 when i put the key in to start the gngine i get a paddlock locked simble if you take the key in and out you just get it to start last time i licked the key to get it started battery in both keys are ok has any one else had this probelm if so what is the answer our dealer has notseen it before and says new key might do at £120+vat that is a big might

ken
December 2009