Could anyone please solve this problem I have with my VW Golf?

I have a 1998 1.4L golf (petrol). It will not start but turns over OK. There is no spark from the coil and the fuel pump doesn't run when I turn the ignition. Pump relay works when connected across 12v but doesn't when connected in car. Checked coil supply, +12 OK when turn ignition on but earth not connected. This earth comes from the ECU so could this be an ECU problem or could it be the immobiliser. Is there anyway of finding out without diagnostics?