(The Hill) -- Peter Mandelson, who was ousted Thursday as the U.K.'s top diplomat in the U.S., has led a storied career in British politics over the past two decades — including at least two resignations.

Mandelson was removed from his post because of his ties to the late disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein.

Stephen Doughty, the U.K.’s minister of state for Europe, North America and overseas territories, announced the move early Thursday, condemning the diplomat for his seemingly tight friendship with the convicted sex offender.

Here's what you need to know about Mandelson.

Epstein association

Controversy surrounding Mandelson picked up after the House Oversight Committee released a 10-page note written in 2003 in which the ex-diplomat described Epstein as his “best pal.”

At the time

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