The review found a culture of ‘incivility, rudeness, aggression, undermining and blame', and ‘concerns about misogyny' at the hospital's anaesthetics department.

Elements of training were ‘perceived to be insufficient' and there were reports of ‘sexually inappropriate comments' directed at residents and theatre staff by consultants.

A spokesperson for NHS England – East of England said: ‘In May this year, NHS England carried out an education quality review of training at Basildon University Hospital's anaesthetics department. The review found multiple patient safety concerns and significant areas for improvement needed in education and training, so NHS England took immediate action to relocate resident doctors to alternative sites.

‘NHS England is committed to ensuring clinicians receive the highest standards of training in an inclusive and respectful environment, and it continues to work closely with Mid and South Essex NHS Foundation Trust and the General Medical Council to ensure the necessary improvements at Basildon University Hospital are made and sustained.'

Christine Blanshard, chief medical officer for Mid and South Essex NHS Foundation Trust, said: ‘We took immediate action as soon as concerns were raised by resident doctors. All staff deserve to work in a safe, supportive and respectful environment, and we always take action to address any poor behaviours.'

The trust said staff were encouraged to raise concerns quickly, either through their line managers, through its Freedom to Speak Up champions or using the independent Guardian Service.