Nicholls throws weight behind civil unions

Former Queensland treasurer Tim Nicholls has announced on Twitter that he will vote in favour of restoring civil unions in the sunshine state.

Opposition Leader Lawrence Springborg announced on Monday that Liberal National Party MPs would be given a free vote when the government's proposal to restore state-sanctioned civil partnership ceremonies for straight and same-sex couples is debated next week.

Mr Nicholls, who is now the Shadow Minister for Infrastructure, Planning, Small Business, Employment and Trade, posted on Twitter late on Monday night: "I will support the Relationships (Civil Partnerships) Bill. Let's all celebrate & support strong committed relationships between adults."