Oxford-based charity Oxfam has been banned from Haiti after allegations of sexual misconduct by the charity's staff.

The scandal plunged the charity into crisis in February when it emerged that some of its workers engaged in 'sex parties' with prostitutes in the aftermath of the devastating 2010 earthquake which hit the Caribbean country.

The Haitian government has now withdrawn Oxfam GB's right to work in the country.

It said the decision due to a violation of laws.

Oxfam, based near Oxford Business Park in Cowley, said it was disappointed but understood the decision, and added it would continue to work in Haiti through affiliate members in Italy, Spain and the Canadian province of Quebec.

A spokeswoman said: "The behaviour of some former Oxfam staff working in Haiti following the 2010 earthquake was completely unacceptable.

"We have apologised to the government and the Haitian people for what happened."

The former head of Oxfam's operations in Haiti admitted having a sexual relationship with a woman he helped in the aftermath of 2010's earthquake but denied using prostitutes.

Roland van Hauwermeiren wrote an open letter in which he said he was "deeply ashamed" by aspects of his behaviour.

In February, the head of Oxfam International Winnie Byanyima described the sexual exploitation allegations as a "stain" on the charity "that will shame us for years" as she announced plans to try to stamp out abuse in the organisation.