26.Subsection (1) enables a Minister of the Crown to do what could be done under section 5 (orders about general measures) or section 6 (regulations relating to disclosure of information) by way of direction where there is insufficient time for secondary legislation to be made. Directions must be in writing. Subsection (4) makes further provision as to the powers and duties of the Minister to revoke or vary directions and the duration of a direction. In particular, directions cease to have effect 21 days after they have been made.