Democracy calls follow Castro retirement

British politicians called for a renewed drive towards democracy in Cuba after the country's president, Fidel Castro, announced his retirement.

The octogenarian revolutionary, who first came to power in 1959, said he would not stand again for Cuba's presidency in a letter published on the Community party newspaper Granma's website.

Foreign secretary David Miliband led the British response to the news, acknowledging the "historic role" Mr Castro has played in Cuba's recent history.

"The Cuban people will now be looking to the future, a future which we hope will offer them political progress founded on democracy and human rights, and continued progress based on social justice and individual need," he said.

"Like the rest of the EU, the UK is looking forward to productive relations which will bring benefits to both of our nations."

Cuba has been extending its relations with other South American and Central American states since Raul Castro replaced his brother on a day-to-day basis in 2006.

The process has so far been limited, but UK politicians believe the time has come to accelerate this process still further.

Ian Gibson, chairman of parliament's all-party group on Cuba, said the country understands it must join the "global economy".

"I think there will be less fear of America and more interaction with Europe. I think it will be a most interesting time," he predicted.

Liberal Democrat foreign affairs spokesperson Ed Davey called on the international community to "encourage reform and hold out the hand of friendship" to Cuba.

He warned there remains a risk Fidel Castro's long-awaited demise may not bring about the positive changes expected by many.

"With Fidel Castro gone we must hope that Cuba carries out major reforms and joins the democratic world," he added.

"It would be a tragedy if he were succeeded by a family dynasty."