Lord Neuberger also claimed politicians could have been “quicker and clearer” in defending the judiciary after the High Court ruling that Theresa May did not have the power to start the Brexit process without the consent of Parliament.
Lord Neuberger did not single out any politicians or newspapers, but told the BBC: “We were certainly not well treated.
“One has to be careful about being critical of the press, particularly as a lawyer or judge, because our view of life is very different from that of the media.
“I think some of what was said was undermining the rule of law.”
Gina Miller reveals shocking abuse since launching Article 50 Brexit legal challenge
Asked whether politicians responded quickly enough to defend the judiciary and rule of law, Lord Neuberger told Radio 4's Today programme: “They were certainly vocal enough quickly enough after our hearing.
“After the (High) Court hearing, I think they could have been quicker and clearer. But we all learn by experience, whether politicians or judges. It's easy to be critical after the event.
“They were faced with an unexpected situation from which, like all sensible people, they learned.”
Lord Neuberger said undermining the judiciary also undermined the rule of law as judges were “the ultimate guardians” of it.
Supreme Court Brexit Challenge
Show all 13
“The rule of law together with democracy is one of the two pillars on which our society is based,” he said.
“And therefore if, without good reason, the media or anyone else undermines the judiciary, that risks undermining our society.
“The press and the media generally have a positive duty to keep an eye on things. But I think with that with that power comes the degree of responsibility.”
Lord Neuberger, who is due to retire later this year, was speaking as the process was launched to appoint new judges to the Supreme Court, including his successor as president.
PA
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies