VANCOUVER - A special legislative committee voted unanimously Wednesday in favour of offering BC's auditor general a two-year extension on his term, backtracking on an earlier decision not to reappoint the government watchdog.

The BC Liberals were criticized earlier this month after it was revealed John Doyle wasn't going to be offered a second term once his initial six-year tenure ended later this year.

Premier Christy Clark said last week she supported changing legislation so that an auditor general is only eligible for a single eight-year term.

NDP caucus chair Shane Simspon said the committee's decision was a win for the public.

"It's very unfortunate someone like Mr. Doyle got dragged through this unnecessarily because of a bit of petty vindictiveness on the part of the Liberals," he said.

Kate Jobling, spokeswoman for the auditor general's office, said Doyle was "heartened" by public support, but would not comment on the offer until he speaks to friends and family about renewing his term.