Ford: Brake lights/cruise, working/ not working, brake light switch, amp fuse

Question
Hi. I have a 1986 Mercury Sable, 3.0 litre. Great car, very dependable. Recently, while driving with the cruise control on, I noticed upon applying the brakes this week, the cruise control would not disengage and the engine R.P.M s remained steady as I was slowing down so I pressed the off button on the steering wheel and it disengaged.  This was happening at any speed. The only way to stop the cruise control is to shut it off using the off control on the steering column. Also, applying the brake hard made no difference. Setting the cruise is still normal.
The next day, my neighbour yelled at me and told me I had no brake lights at all. Niether right or left brake light or the rear upper brake light in the back window. I changed the bulbs, the 15 amp fuse and no difference. I read the manual and the signals are fused with the brake lights and cruise control as far as I can tell. It is apparent to me that they both malfunctioned at the same time. The front and rear signal lights, tail lights, head lights, 4 way flashers and all other electrical devices in the car work fine. I see no loose wires under the steering wheel, although I have not had time for a real good look.
I thank you very much for taking time to read my letter and thank you in advance for any solutions you may have.

Rob.  

Answer
Your problem is rather simple there is on the brake pedal itself a brake light switch that tells the brake lights to activate and also signals the cruise control that the brakes are being pressed.  This brake light switch has gone out.  It can be replaced at any parts house for under twenty dollars.