LONDON — Britain’s government today published proposals to reform the country’s centuries-old House of Lords, including the first direct elections for members.

The 700-year-old upper chamber, which does not make laws but has the power to amend legislation, has 792 active members, a mix of appointed, hereditary and religious peers. The members are appointed for life.

“The House of Lords performs its work well but lacks sufficient democratic authority,” Prime Minister David Cameron said.

A draft bill published by Nick Clegg, the deputy prime minister, outlined how the chamber can be slimmed down to 300 members, with 80 percent elected and each member serving fixed 15-year terms. The other 20 percent, 60 members, would be appointed.

The bill was published together with a paper setting out other options, including making the chamber entirely elected. That plan is favored by Clegg, but will likely face strong opposition from the chamber.

Both documents will be considered by lawmakers from the House of Lords and the House of Commons.