About one-third of the 300 births in Shetland have to take place in Aberdeen because of complications, and airfares of up to £250 have denied many fathers the chance to be present.

Jim Wallace MP: Proposes using passenger air tax for the scheme

The local MP, Jim Wallace, wants some of the money raised from the passenger air tax in the islands to fund a scheme to fly partners to the births.

He said: "I'm sympathetic because it's a very special occasion which I've experienced and I'd like others to experience it too."

Jim Wallace MP: "I'm sympathetic"

A new group, the Assistance for Birth Partners Campaign Group, is arguing that the government is turning its back on the NHS's founding principle - to provide equal access to services.

Its secretary, Jan Price, said: "A birth partner can greatly help to reduce the need for pain relief."

Jonathan Duncan and Louise Sails are just one couple who believe that more help should be given.

Ms Sails had to travel to hospital in Aberdeen 12 times during her pregnancy and though her travel expenses were paid by the island's health board no assistance was available for Mr Duncan.

Jan Price: Birth partner "reduces need for pain relief"

He told BBC Scotland: "I don't think that it's really fair for fathers to have to pay out £140 each time they want to accompany their partner to the hospital."

The Scottish Office has said it has no plans to expand its travel scheme to fathers or birth partners.

A spokesman said it would have considerable resource consequences, with the cost only being met at the expense of direct patient care.

Both Orkney and Shetland authorities have said their hands are tied, although they add they are sympathetic.