No, they generally haven't done that since around the time of Vatican II (1960's). It is normally handed to the communicant (recipient). Again, in general, anyone who request for or distributes to the tongue is a more traditional Catholic (might even want the Latin Mass back).
But more importantly, I agree that he should have known ahead of time. Be you Catholic or Protestant, this is one of the core issues that led to the Reformation - Catholic teaching is quite clear regarding the real presence of Christ, whilst most Protestant denominations believe it is symbolic presence. Whichever of these two large groups one is in, one should be aware of - and especially for a public figure such as the PM, sensitive to, the respective beliefs of these groups.
Harper's people seem a bit concerened about this issue. And in my humble opinion, he seems to be continuing a pattern of using his aides when things don't go his way.