British Prime Minister David Cameron on Friday said he was "deeply shocked" by the deadly attacks in Paris, offering "thoughts and prayers" to the French people.

"I am shocked by events in Paris tonight. Our thoughts and prayers are with the French people. We will do whatever we can to help," Cameron said via his Twitter account.

British Foreign Secretary Philip Hammond also tweeted: "Deeply shocked by appalling attacks in Paris tonight. My thoughts are with victims and their loved ones. Concerned by reports of hostages taken."

A Foreign Office statement said it is in close touch with the French authorities and are urgently investigating whether any British nationals are caught up in them.

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