Layout is decided not to be propagated and names is handled by pekwm now ref patches.
i thinks the _NET_DESKTOP_LAYOUT is for say to the window manager show act in base of the pager configuration , i mean the number of workspace ( set from the pager )the layout of the workspace ( 2 up 2 down , in a row all of then etc )
A patch for _NET_DESKTOP_NAMES is on its way. But the ewmh spec says about _NET_DESKTOP_LAYOUT: "This property is set by a Pager, not by the Window Manager." Shall pekwm set it or not?