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:
Tynwald Day event to be held in London
Campaigner labels horse tram business case "biggest fudge" in Manx politics
Ministers' response to dyslexia report 'disappointing', says campaign group