The conference motion said the standing commission would engage “citizens in an ongoing dialogue about constitutional issues” and research “issues of relevance to Wales’ constitutional future”.
It would also prepare a “white paper on Welsh independence”. The motion also said that the power to hold a referendum should be devolved.
A white paper is a document that details a government’s plans or proposals. The SNP published a white paper on its independence plans ahead of the 2014 Scottish referendum, in its second term of government.
BBC Wales was told the standing commission could begin gathering evidence for a white paper in a Plaid first term.
Proposing the motion to the conference on Saturday, Ap Iorwerth said: “The motion looks to the future… and the need ultimately for a white paper which would set the formal path towards asking the people of Wales in a referendum.
“We make it clear it is us that should call the referendum when the time is right.
“But that’s not for now or the next government.
“Our work now is to take the discussion forward on the next steps for Wales’s constitutional journey.”
