Almost a quarter of new doctors joining Basildon Hospital come from developing countries where recruitment is banned.

New figures have revealed a surge in medics joining the NHS from a list of countries the Government says should not be “actively recruited from”, such as Bangladesh, Georgia and Nigeria.

The hospital has stated it does not actively recruit from these countries - but does consider applications.

Of the 96 new doctors who joined Basildon Hospital in the 12 months to January, 23 gained their medical qualifications in countries on the restricted list.

The policy is intended to prevent valuable medical staff being poached from their home nations.

On the list, Pakistan provided the most doctors at Basildon Hospital, with eight training there at the moment.

This was followed by Nigeria, with six doctors.

On top of the 23, it also hired eight doctors from India and one from China, which are included on the list but trusts are only restricted from hiring from certain regions.

Cathy O’Driscoll, group HR director, Mid and South Essex University Hospitals Group said:

“Basildon and Thurrock University Hospital Foundation Trust does not actively recruit from any countries on the restricted list. Our recruitment processes follow ethical procedures via approved routes, working closely with the East of England supplier hub.

“As a healthcare provider we always prioritise patient safety and have stringent recruitment controls in place. For overseas doctors who seek to join us, there is always a requirement for them to evidence appropriate residency and right to work status.”