Castro's Brother Pushes Quality Of Life In Cuba

"Raúl's ailing brother, Fidel, is still showing leadership behind the scenes, and as provisional president, Raúl has only taken small steps. But he's already giving clues to how he might govern once he takes full control -- paying special attention to quality-of-life problems, publicly scolding state managers and bluntly acknowledging that salaries don't cover basic needs."

"The new Chinese buses on inter-city routes are evidence of the Raúl effect. They were in the planning before Fidel got sick, but they have become much more visible since Raúl gave a speech late last year saying he was sick of hearing bureaucrats' excuses and wanted results."

"To boost food production, lawmakers agreed in June to pay producers 2 ½ times more for milk and meat included in the island's heavily subsidized ration program and in meals provided at similarly low-cost workplace cafeterias, schools, hospitals and community centers. The prices consumers pay will remain the same."