Pfründe

Benefice or stipend: endowment of a civil servant or dignitary with income, without obligation to perform any duties in return. During the Middle Ages the Babenbergs and Habsburgs leased parishes to their chancellors or secretaries as benefices. From the late Middle Ages bishoprics were given as benefices to members of the royal family, even if they were not ordained. Since the 20^th century jobs in the nationalised industries or other business enterprises (mostly affiliated to a political party) have often been given to retired politicians.