Fresh talks will be held today to try to resolve the bitter dispute over London Underground (LU) ticket office closures as unions are poised for another 48-hour strike next week.

Negotiators from the RMT and TSSA unions will meet LU officials after the capital was brought to standstill again yesterday - but stubborn London Mayor Boris Johnson has refused to attend.

Another 48-hour stoppage will be held from 9pm next Tuesday if there is no deal.

Over 70 per cent of Underground services were stopped yesterday, as workers took action against plans to close all ticket offices and get rid of 950 staff - a decision which many worry will leave stations without staff.

Journeys on the capital's Barclays bicycle-hire scheme were up by 50 per cent for the second day, although wet and windy weather persuaded many people to work from home rather than face the limping public transport system.

And at 5.50am yesterday an RMT member on a picket line outside Hammersmith station was arrested on suspicion of a public order offence, allegedly after a worker overheard him use the word "scabs" and reported him to the police.

RMT assistant general secretary Steve Hedley said the arrest was an example of police intimidation.

While many members of the public have been supportive, Mr Hedley made clear that picketers have faced adverse treatment from individuals.

"Some of the abuse has been phenomenal," he said.

The unions have been urging Mr Johnson to meet them to discuss the planned closures and job losses. The mayor has so far refused but said he was pleased "the unions have agreed to sit down with TfL at Acas."

TSSA leader Manuel Cortes said it was time for the mayor to "get serious."

He said: "We want serious and detailed talks on our genuine fears for the safety and security of passengers and staff under these far-reaching plans.

"If that happens, I believe we can reach a settlement that will avoid next week's 48-hour walkout."

To reiterate the dangers, the RMT revealed yesterday that LU's own assessment concluded the cuts would have a seriously adverse affect on vulnerable groups - including the elderly and disabled.

The LU report said these groups share the perception "that there will be fewer staff and therefore more crime and antisocial behaviour at stations."