Drafting legislation to order businesses to shut 'was not possible'
David Ashford says ministers had no choice but to advise businesses to close on Saturday.
Some in the hospitality sector have criticised government for leaving the decision up to individuals while contact tracing of two Covid-19 cases of unknown origin took place.
Speaking on Manx Radio Breakfast the health minister said drafting legislation, to order closures, in the time wasn't possible.
He spoke to Sian Cowper:
Murder accused had intellectual age of 'nine-year-old'
Jury hears suspect had borderline learning disability
MHKs explain their 'no vote' decision in chief minister election
Cannan and Moorhouse spoilt their papers
Farmers union declares no faith in DEFA leadership
MNFU cites 'a considerable lack of understanding' of challenges
Major incident declared as crews battled fire
12 taken to hospital overnight