(a) No stenographic report shall be taken at informal conferences and no witnesses shall be called. The district director shall guide the discussion toward the achievement of the purpose of such conference, recommending courses of action where there are disputed issues, and giving the parties the benefit of his experience and specialized knowledge in the field of workmen's compensation.

(b) Conferences generally shall be held at the district director's office. However, such conferences may be held at any place which, in the opinion of the district director, will be of greater convenience to the parties or to their representatives.