I should have clarified in the original comment: the roles all had python experience as a specific requirement and some of the candidates apparently had multiple years of experience with Python listed on their CVs.

Depends on whether the candidate claims to know Python on their resume. If they do so, I'd certainly expect some basic ability to read such code.

Almost all big companies let candidates choose their language for the interview, with assumption it'll be python/java/c++ or similar mainstream lang.