Preheat the oven to 180°C/350°F/Gas mark 4
In a saucepan, combine the sugar, water, raisins, butter and salt. Stir over a gentle heat until the sugar and butter have melted. Raise the heat and bring to a boil, stirring continuously. Simmer for 1 minute. Remove from the heat and cool. Sift together the flour, salt, baking soda and spices. Add the cooled mixture and mix well.
Drop by the teaspoonful onto a cookie sheet. Bake for 15 minutes. Cool in the oven for 2 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
