Probably a stupid question but here goes.

I haven't checked previous versions yet but was wondering if there is plans in upcoming versions for the following code:

$header_template = 'tpl_header.php';
$footer_template = 'tpl_footer.php';
$left_column_file = 'column_left.php';
$right_column_file = 'column_right.php';

Doesn't seem to do or effect anything.