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:
Rapists appealing sentence and conviction following retrial
Staff of Government Appeal Division hearing this week
Two more weather warnings issued ahead of high tide
Amber warning for coastal overtopping and yellow alert for tidal flooding in Ramsey
Manannan sailings cancelled due to adverse weather
Gale force eight winds expected later
Welbeck Hotel owner 'overwhelmed' by response to closure
'Potential interest' in takeover being explored