THE Government was last night accused of "being in a right mess" over the so-called Ghost Ships after it was confirmed that permission has been given for two more to dock in the North-East.

Friends of the Earth said it was disappointed that just a week after the Government agreed it would be best for the former US navy vessels to be turned back, it had now given them clearance to head for Hartlepool.

''The Government does not seem to be following through on its statement to ensure these boats were sent back to the US," said spokeswoman Elaine Gilligan.

''The Government now has to keep its promise that, on a long-term basis, these ships have to go back to the States, to demonstrate they are standing up for the people of Teesside, the environment and environmental laws."

The vessels, the general auxiliary Compass Island and submarine repair tender Canopus, will arrive at the Graythorp yard later this month to join the Caloosahatchee and Canisteo, now moored at the Able UK facility.

The firm's managing director, Peter Stephenson, said he remained confident that, once the legal issues were resolved, the vessels would be recycled at the facility.

''There is a growing groundswell of both support for our contract and understanding of the benefits that it will bring for Hartlepool and the area, and anger at the way in which many people feel they have been deceived and misled," he said.

Despite the assurances of Hartlepool MP Peter Mandelson that the vessels are safe, Friends of the Earth is adamant they contain dangerous chemicals and PCBs.

Environment Minister Margaret Beckett previously said the first two ships could dock in Hartlepool for the winter before being sent back, and the second two vessels should turn around immediately.

But a spokesman for the Department of Environment said at the weekend: "Following exploration of alternative options, the Government has agreed with the US authorities that the third and fourth US ships currently on their way to the UK should continue their passage to Hartlepool, where they will be stored pending a decision on their future."

Able UK won an £11m contract to recycle 13 ghost ships - securing 200 jobs - after winning Environment Agency approval.

But the plans were later blocked when it was decided that the waste management licence held by the company did not cover the disposal of ships.

A High Court hearing will decide next month if the company can go ahead with the dismantling operation.