Former MPs and ministers claimed over €24m in the special unemployment benefit for politicians between September 2012 and the end of last year, the Telegraaf said on Monday.

In total, 186 former MPs, 18 former ministers and 15 former junior ministers have claimed the benefit, known as wachtgeld, since the 2012 general election, the paper said.

The figures come from the home affairs ministry and no names are given. The best ‘paid’ MP has had payments totalling €468,219 during the period while one former junior minister has claimed €482,861 in benefits.

MPs and ministers who lose their seat or their job are entitled to 80% of their salary for one year. Subsequent payments which can last several years are made at 70% rate.

Former politicians who get a job which does not pay as much as being an MP can also claim top-up benefits.